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Criterion
Design Thinking as a learning loop: an observation notebook, a focused problem statement, different idea sketches, a cardboard prototype and user-test notes. Feedback leads to new understanding.
Innovation
Design Thinking
Iceberg Model method illustration showing its working structure
Systems Thinking
Iceberg Model
Paper illustration for Causal Factor Analysis.
Operations
Causal Factor Analysis
Paper illustration of Barrier Analysis with its method-specific working model.
Operations
Barrier Analysis
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.The Iceberg Model separates visible events from patterns, structures, and mental models. This turns a single observation into a deeper understanding of why a problem keeps recurring.For an event with a complicated course, the method breaks down the contributing factors along the timeline. It shows how conditions, decisions, and reactions together produce a course of events.For a risk that can only be managed through multiple layers of protection, the method examines the effectiveness of each barrier. It shows where safeguards are missing, too weak, or fail under real conditions.
Complexitydifferent
HighLowHighMedium
Timedifferent
1 Tag bis mehrere Wochen30-60 min2-6 h2-4 h
Participantsdifferent
4-102-103-102-6
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Problem Statement, Prototype, Test LearningsIceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention IdeasEvent Timeline, Causal Factor Chart, Cause List, Corrective ActionsBarrier Inventory, Failure Analysis per Barrier, Action Backlog
Tagsno overlap
InnovationPrototypeResearch
Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns
CausalityIncidentRoot causeTimeline
Root causeSafetyIncident
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