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| Criterion | ![]() Operations Causal Factor Analysis | ![]() Systems Thinking VUCA Scan | ![]() Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram | ![]() Systems Thinking Wardley Mapping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 VUCA Scan helps read difficult situations more precisely. Instead of treating unclarity as generally complicated, the method separates fast change, missing knowledge, systemic entanglement, and ambiguous interpretation. | 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. | Wardley Mapping makes visible where an offering stands today and where it can evolve. The method connects user need, value chain, and evolution stages into a strategic basis for platform, build, or buy decisions. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Low | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 2-6 h | 30-90 min | 1-3 h | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 3-10 | 1-10 | 2-8 | 2-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Event Timeline, Causal Factor Chart, Cause List, Corrective Actions | VUCA Map, Response Options, Signal and Learning Plan | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Wardley Map, Strategic Options, Evolution Notes |
Tagsno overlap | CausalityIncidentRoot causeTimeline | SensemakingUncertaintyComplexityStrategyForesight | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | StrategySystems thinkingDynamics |



