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| Criterion | ![]() Decision Making Cynefin Workshop | ![]() Knowledge Modeling IBIS | ![]() Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping | ![]() Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | When problems are unclear, chaotic, or only seemingly familiar, standard recipes fall short. A Cynefin Workshop sorts situations by the nature of their problem and connects them with matching action logic. | IBIS structures thinking about complex questions as a sequence of issues, ideas, and arguments. The method keeps discussions open without forcing them into premature consensus. | 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. | Soft Systems Methodology helps explore unclear or politically charged problems systematically. Instead of forcing a quick answer, the method builds a shared understanding of perspectives and room for action. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 60-180 min | 1-3 h | 1-2 h | 0.5-3 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 4-20 | 2-8 | 1-8 | 5-15 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Cynefin Map, Domain-specific Actions, Sensemaking Notes | Issue Map, Positions, Argument Notes | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda |
Tagsno overlap | ComplexitySensemakingDecision | RationaleKnowledgeDecision | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking |



