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| Criterion |  Operations DMAIC |  Operations Kaizen Event |  Architecture ATAM (Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method) |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For a process problem with fluctuating performance, the method brings analysis and improvement into a disciplined sequence. It creates a framework in which numbers, causes, and control come together. | 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. | ATAM helps teams weigh architecture decisions when quality goals compete. The team considers business goals, stakeholder expectations, and technical decisions together. The evaluation shows which risks need further investigation. | 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 | High | Medium | High | Medium |
Timedifferent | 2-12 Wochen | 0.5-5 Tage | Several meetings plus preparation and analysis; total effort depends on scope | 45-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-10 | 4-10 | Evaluation team, architects, and relevant stakeholders | 2-5 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Project Charter, Measurement Plan, Cause Analysis, Control Plan | Kaizen Charter, Waste List, Improvement Experiments, Standard Work Update | Prioritized quality scenarios in a utility tree, Architecture risks with reasoning and assumptions, Sensitivity and trade-off points, Findings report with open investigations | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis |
Tagsno overlap | Continuous improvementQualityProcess improvement | LeanContinuous improvementOperations | ArchitectureQualityRiskTradeoffsStakeholders | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations |