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| Criterion |  Innovation Design Thinking |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |  Innovation Design Sprint |  Operations Kaizen Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For complex user problems with an uncertain cause, the method connects observation, interpretation, and experiment into a learning cycle. It keeps the focus on real needs and avoids premature solution language. This produces robust decisions for product and service. | 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. | When the product question is unclear and time pressure is high, the method takes a team from an open idea to a testable solution. It connects problem understanding, decision, and learning in one compact format, lowering the risk of spending a lot of energy on a mere guess. | For a tightly scoped process segment with noticeable waste, the method bundles shared energy for change. It suits situations that call for fast learning loops and visible adjustments. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Medium | High | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1 Tag bis mehrere Wochen | 45-90 min | 4-5 Tage | 0.5-5 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 4-10 | 2-5 | 5-8 | 4-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Problem Statement, Prototype, Test Learnings | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | Prototype, Test Findings, Decision Rationale | Kaizen Charter, Waste List, Improvement Experiments, Standard Work Update |
Tagsno overlap | InnovationPrototypeResearch | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | Design sprintPrototypeValidationInnovation | LeanContinuous improvementOperations |