View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion | ![]() Operations Causal Factor Analysis | ![]() Business Strategy TOWS Matrix | ![]() Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram | ![]() Systems Thinking System Dynamics Simulation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For an event with a complicated course, the method breaks down the contributing factors along the timeline. It shows how conditions, decisions, and reactions together produce a course of events. | The TOWS Matrix connects internal strengths and weaknesses with external opportunities and threats into action-oriented strategies. It goes a step further than a pure stocktaking. | 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. | System Dynamics Simulation makes assumptions about time, delay, and feedback testable through experiments. It draws relationships, patterns, and feedback loops. The result is captured as a simulation model and scenario reports. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Medium | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 2-6 h | 1-2 h | 1-3 h | Mehrere Tage bis Wochen |
Participantsdifferent | 3-10 | 3-10 | 2-8 | 1-5 Modellierende, Stakeholder asynchron |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop | Async |
Outputdifferent | Event Timeline, Causal Factor Chart, Cause List, Corrective Actions | TOWS Matrix, Strategic Options, Priority Actions | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Simulation Model, Scenario Reports |
Tagsno overlap | CausalityIncidentRoot causeTimeline | StrategyAnalysisOptions | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | Systems thinkingDynamicsSimulationAnalysis |



