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| Criterion | ![]() UX Research Affinity Diagramming | ![]() Operations Failure Mode and Effects Analysis | ![]() Operations ABC Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | When research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. | For a process, product, or service with noticeable failure risks, the method assesses possible failure modes in advance. It directs attention to combinations of occurrence, effect, and detectability. | With many similar objects of differing economic significance, the method prioritizes effort by effect. It separates what needs regular steering from what rarely needs attention. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | High | Low |
Timedifferent | 45–90 min | 2-6 h | 30-60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-10 | 3-10 | 1-5 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Async |
Outputdifferent | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | FMEA Table, Risk Priority, Mitigation Actions | ABC Classification, Focus Rules, Control List |
Tagsno overlap | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | RiskQualityOperationsRoot cause | PrioritizationOperationsPortfolio |
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