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Criterion
Affinity Diagramming
UX Research
Affinity Diagramming
Paper illustration of a branching category tree with a highlighted search path and possible dead ends.
UX Research
Tree Testing
A3 Problem-Solving workspace showing the question, observations, and next decision.
Operations
A3 Problem Solving
Paper illustration for Kepner-Tregoe
Operations
Kepner-Tregoe
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.When a navigation exists but search paths still fail, tree testing checks findability without visual distraction. The method shows whether labels, levels, and paths really lead to the intended destination.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.For a disturbance that's hard to pin down, the method cleanly separates problem, cause, and decision. It reduces mixing when symptoms allow several interpretations.
Complexitydifferent
LowMediumMediumHigh
Timedifferent
45–90 min1-2 Tage45-90 min2-8 h
Participantsdifferent
3-10Based on research question2-52-8
Formatdifferent
WorkshopAsyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areasFindability Metrics, Path Analysis, Revised IAA3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause AnalysisProblem Analysis, Decision Analysis, Risk Plan
Tagsno overlap
SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause
Information architectureNavigationFindability
LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations
Problem solvingRoot causeDecisionOperations
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