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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Product Strategy Impact Mapping |  Systems Thinking Theory of Change |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | When a goal needs to be connected to several possible paths, it shows chains of impact instead of feature lists. It connects business goal, behavior change, and measures. | Theory of Change translates a desired impact into a traceable chain of change. It makes assumptions, intermediate goals, and measurement points visible before a program is rolled out at scale. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 45-90 min | 2-6 h |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 3-8 | 4-12 |
Formatsame | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Impact Map, Outcome Hypotheses, Delivery Options | Theory of Change Map, Assumptions, Outcome Measures |
Tagsno overlap | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | OutcomesStrategyBehaviorPlanning | ImpactOutcomesSystems thinkingStrategy |
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