View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Behavior Over Time Graph |  Agile Bucket System |  Agile Affinity Estimation |  Systems Thinking Iceberg Model |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | A Behavior Over Time Graph shows how a metric or observation develops over time. The method makes trends, breaks, and recurring patterns visible that get lost in snapshots. | When a large batch of work needs a fast, rough estimate, it sorts items into predefined size buckets. It sorts work by value, risk, and delivery ability. The result is captured as a Bucketed Backlog, Relative Estimates, and Split Candidates. | When many tasks need to be classified quickly, it sorts them by perceived effort and similarity. It reduces the effort of fine-grained estimation for large volumes. | The Iceberg Model separates visible events from patterns, structures, and mental models. This turns a single observation into a deeper understanding of why a problem keeps recurring. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 20-45 min | 30-90 min | 30-90 min | 30-60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-10 | 3-12 | 3-12 | 2-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Behavior Over Time Graph, Trend Hypotheses, Key Events | Bucketed Backlog, Relative Estimates, Split Candidates | Affinity Size Map, Grouped Estimates, Unclear Items | Iceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention Ideas |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingPatternsDynamics | EstimationBacklogRelative sizing | EstimationBacklogRelative sizing | Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns |