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| Criterion |  Operations ALPEN Method |  Systems Thinking Wardley Mapping |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Business Strategy GAP Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | With an overloaded day full of too many tasks, a realistic picture of the day emerges. The method connects estimating, deciding, and buffer thinking so planning fits available energy and time. | Wardley Mapping makes visible where an offering stands today and where it can evolve. The method connects user need, value chain, and evolution stages into a strategic basis for platform, build, or buy decisions. | A Causal Loop Diagram makes feedback, reinforcement, and balance in a system legible. It uncovers side effects and self-reinforcement that stay hidden in linear explanations. | GAP Analysis compares the current state with a target picture and makes the distance manageable. It becomes useful when, ahead of new initiatives, it must become clear which capabilities, processes, or resources are missing. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 10-20 min daily | 1-3 h | 1-3 h | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 1 | 2-10 | 2-8 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Daily Plan, Time Estimates, Review Notes | Wardley Map, Strategic Options, Evolution Notes | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Gap Matrix, Action Plan, Risk Notes |
Tagsno overlap | PlanningTime managementProductivityOperations | StrategySystems thinkingDynamics | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | StrategyAnalysisPlanning |