View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion | ![]() UX Research Contextual Inquiry | ![]() Operations ABC Analysis | ![]() Operations Standard Work Analysis | ![]() Operations A3 Problem Solving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | When work processes are known only from accounts and the real context stays hidden, Contextual Inquiry makes behavior at the workplace visible. Observation and follow-up questions together show how people actually work, get interrupted, and improvise. | With many similar objects of differing economic significance, the method prioritizes effort by effect. It separates what needs regular steering from what rarely needs attention. | When the same task is done differently depending on the person, the method exposes the reliable core. It creates comparability without unnecessarily choking off needed latitude. | For a complex deviation with several people involved, the method bundles problem, analysis, and decision onto one page. It creates a shared working space where causes, countermeasures, and follow-up fit together. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-3 Wochen | 30-60 min | 1-3 h | 45-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 4-12 Beobachtungen | 1-5 | 2-6 | 2-5 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Field Notes, Workflow Insights, Pain Points | ABC Classification, Focus Rules, Control List | Standard Work Sheet, Deviation List, Improved Standard, Training Needs | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis |
Tagsno overlap | UX researchObservationContext | PrioritizationOperationsPortfolio | LeanProcessQuality | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations |



