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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Behavior Over Time Graph |  Knowledge Modeling IBIS |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Systems Thinking Current Reality Tree |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | 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. | A Current Reality Tree condenses many symptoms into a few causal chains. The method makes visible which core problems drive several negative effects at once. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 20-45 min | 1-3 h | 1-3 h | 2-6 h |
Participantsdifferent | 1-10 | 2-8 | 2-8 | 3-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Behavior Over Time Graph, Trend Hypotheses, Key Events | Issue Map, Positions, Argument Notes | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Current Reality Tree, Core Problems, Intervention Ideas |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingPatternsDynamics | RationaleKnowledgeDecision | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | Systems thinkingRoot causeConstraintsCausality |