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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking CATWOE Analysis |  Operations Barrier Analysis |  Systems Thinking Iceberg Model |  Operations 5 Whys |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | CATWOE structures a problem from six viewpoints and prevents too narrow a view of the situation. Different experiences of the system become comparably discussable this way. | For a risk that can only be managed through multiple layers of protection, the method examines the effectiveness of each barrier. It shows where safeguards are missing, too weak, or fail under real conditions. | 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. | For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 45-90 min | 2-4 h | 30-60 min | 15-30 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-8 | 2-6 | 2-10 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | CATWOE Canvas, Root Definition, Stakeholder Perspectives, Constraints | Barrier Inventory, Failure Analysis per Barrier, Action Backlog | Iceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention Ideas | Root cause notes, Countermeasures |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingFramingStakeholders | Root causeSafetyIncident | Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving |