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| Criterion |  Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping |  Operations Causal Factor Analysis |  Systems Thinking Systems Mapping |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | High | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 2-6 h | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 1-8 | 3-10 | 3-12 |
Formatsame | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | Event Timeline, Causal Factor Chart, Cause List, Corrective Actions | System Map, Dependencies, Leverage Points |
Tagsno overlap | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | CausalityIncidentRoot causeTimeline | Systems thinkingMappingBoundariesChange |
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