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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Systems Thinking Systems Mapping |  Systems Thinking Wardley Mapping |  Domain Modeling Context Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | Systems Mapping arranges elements, relationships, and boundaries so a complex field becomes legible at a glance. The overview stabilizes the overall picture before detail work or steering begins. | 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. | When several contexts need to talk to each other, it makes their relationships and dependencies legible. It helps sort integration pressure and responsibilities across system boundaries. |
Complexitysame | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium |
Timesame | 1-3 h | 1-3 h | 1-3 h | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 3-12 | 2-10 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | System Map, Dependencies, Leverage Points | Wardley Map, Strategic Options, Evolution Notes | Context Map, Integration Patterns, Boundary Notes |
Tagsno overlap | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | Systems thinkingMappingBoundariesChange | StrategySystems thinkingDynamics | Domain-Driven DesignBoundariesStrategy |