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| Criterion | ![]() UX Research Affinity Diagramming | ![]() Knowledge Modeling IBIS | ![]() Operations A3 Problem Solving |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | IBIS structures thinking about complex questions as a sequence of issues, ideas, and arguments. The method keeps discussions open without forcing them into premature consensus. | For a complex deviation with several people involved, the method bundles problem, analysis, and decision onto one page. It creates a shared working space where causes, countermeasures, and follow-up fit together. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 45–90 min | 1-3 h | 45-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-10 | 2-8 | 2-5 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | Issue Map, Positions, Argument Notes | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis |
Tagsno overlap | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | RationaleKnowledgeDecision | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations |
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