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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Current Reality Tree |  UX Research Empathy Mapping |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | A Current Reality Tree condenses many symptoms into a few causal chains. The method makes visible which core problems drive several negative effects at once. | 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. | A Causal Loop Diagram makes feedback, reinforcement, and balance in a system legible. It uncovers side effects and self-reinforcement that stay hidden in linear explanations. | When research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Low | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 2-6 h | 30–60 min | 1-3 h | 45–90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-8 | 4-8 | 2-8 | 3-10 |
Formatsame | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Current Reality Tree, Core Problems, Intervention Ideas | Empathy Map, Assumptions List, Research Gaps | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingRoot causeConstraintsCausality | SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause |