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| Criterion | ![]() Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping | ![]() UX Research Empathy Mapping | ![]() Innovation Lotus Blossom | ![]() Innovation Reverse Brainstorming |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | When a lot is assumed about a target group but little is seen jointly, empathy mapping makes knowledge and gaps directly comparable. The picture also shows which assumptions hold up and where evidence is missing. | When a central question feels too large, the method breaks it into neighboring topic fields with their own depth of ideation. It holds structure and openness at the same time, so adjacent perspectives don't get lost. This grows an idea space out of a core problem. | For persistent errors or blockages, the method shifts the view to the opposite of the desired effect. It exposes the mechanics of failure and makes hidden causes easier to grasp. This makes improvement more concrete and the problem clearer. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 30–60 min | 45-90 min | 30-60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-8 | 4-8 | 3-10 | 3-12 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | Empathy Map, Assumptions List, Research Gaps | Lotus Diagram, Idea Themes, Shortlist | Reverse Ideas, Risk Themes, Solution Ideas |
Tagsno overlap | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop | BrainstormingIdeationCreativityDivergenceWorkshop | BrainstormingIdeationCreativityRisk |



