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 CATWOE Analysis |  Facilitation World Café |  Facilitation Alignment Mapping |  Facilitation Fishbowl Discussion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | When a group needs to connect many viewpoints in a short time, World Café creates a calm alternation between closeness and rotation. It sets thinking in motion without forcing the conversation into full-plenary rigidity. | 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. | When a controversial topic needs depth and discipline at the same time, Fishbowl Discussion makes the structure of the conversation transparent. The format keeps the core small enough for real dialogue and open enough for controlled turnover. |
Complexitysame | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 45-90 min | 60-180 min | 1-2 h | 45-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-8 | 12-100+ | 4-12 | 8-80 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | CATWOE Canvas, Root Definition, Stakeholder Perspectives, Constraints | Table Notes, Emergent Themes, Shared Questions | Alignment Map, Open Issues, Decision Questions | Discussion Insights, Observed Tensions, Follow-up Questions |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingFramingStakeholders | FacilitationDialogueLarge groupSensemaking | AlignmentStakeholdersStrategyFacilitation | FacilitationDialogueLarge group |