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 |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Facilitation Alignment Mapping |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | When several people work toward one goal but hold different mental maps, Alignment Mapping makes the discrepancies visible. It arranges goals, assumptions, and priorities so shared direction becomes verifiable. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 20-45 min | 1-3 h | 1-2 h |
Participantsdifferent | 1-10 | 2-8 | 4-12 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Behavior Over Time Graph, Trend Hypotheses, Key Events | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Alignment Map, Open Issues, Decision Questions |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingPatternsDynamics | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | AlignmentStakeholdersStrategyFacilitation |
Often compared together
Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.
