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Criterion
Paper illustration of a Concept Map with concepts and labelled links
Knowledge Modeling
Concept Mapping
Paper illustration of Futures Wheel with its method-specific working model.
Systems Thinking
Futures Wheel
Paper illustration for Future Reality Tree.
Systems Thinking
Future Reality Tree
Systems Mapping method illustration showing its working structure
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.The Futures Wheel helps explore the consequences of a decision, a trend, or a strategic move in a structured way. It makes visible which first, second, and third-order effects could arise from an event.A Future Reality Tree shows how desired actions are meant to lead to a better system state. The method checks whether a path of change holds together logically before time flows into implementation.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
MediumMediumHighMedium
Timedifferent
1-2 h60-120 min2-4 h1-3 h
Participantsdifferent
1-83-103-83-12
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshopWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge GapsFutures Wheel, Consequence Chains, Strategic SignalsFuture Reality Tree, Negative Branches, Assumption List, Improved InjectionsSystem Map, Dependencies, Leverage Points
Tagsno overlap
KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking
ForesightSystems thinkingSignals
Theory of ConstraintsSystems thinkingChange
Systems thinkingMappingBoundariesChange
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