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| Criterion |  Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping |  Operations Root Cause Tree Analysis |  Agile Specification by Example |  Operations 5 Whys |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 a problem with several suspected causes, the method builds a causal structure instead of a mere list. It makes visible how causes connect and where the strongest points of leverage lie. | When business rules need to become precise, it ties language, example, and test together. It sorts work by value, risk, and delivery ability. The result is captured as an Example Table and Acceptance Tests. | For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 1-3 h | 60-90 min pro Feature | 15-30 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-8 | 2-8 | 3-6 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | Cause Tree, Evidence Notes, Countermeasures | Example Table, Acceptance Tests | Root cause notes, Countermeasures |
Tagsno overlap | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | Root causeTreeIncidentQuality | AgileRequirementsExamplesBehavior-Driven Development | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving |