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| Criterion | ![]() Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping | ![]() Systems Thinking CATWOE Analysis | ![]() Systems Thinking Iceberg Model | ![]() Operations Family Tree Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | Concept Mapping arranges terms and relationships in a network that makes subject-matter connections tangible. It fits when a topic needs to be understood structurally rather than linearly. | CATWOE structures a problem from six viewpoints and prevents too narrow a view of the situation. Different experiences of the system become comparably discussable this way. | 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. | For a series of incidents with a similar pattern, the method arranges individual events as branches of a common origin. It makes visible which conditions keep recurring. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 45-90 min | 30-60 min | 2-4 h |
Participantsdifferent | 1-8 | 3-8 | 2-10 | 2-6 |
Formatsame | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | CATWOE Canvas, Root Definition, Stakeholder Perspectives, Constraints | Iceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention Ideas | Family Tree Diagram, Pattern Notes, Systemic Measures |
Tagsno overlap | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | Systems thinkingFramingStakeholders | Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns | Root causePatternsIncidentSystemic |



