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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Systems Thinking Behavior Over Time Graph |  Operations Barrier Analysis |  Systems Thinking Iceberg Model |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | 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 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. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 20-45 min | 2-4 h | 30-60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 1-10 | 2-6 | 2-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Behavior Over Time Graph, Trend Hypotheses, Key Events | Barrier Inventory, Failure Analysis per Barrier, Action Backlog | Iceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention Ideas |
Tagsno overlap | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | Systems thinkingPatternsDynamics | Root causeSafetyIncident | Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns |