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Criterion
Empathy Mapping
UX Research
Empathy Mapping
Paper illustration for TOWS Matrix.
Business Strategy
TOWS Matrix
Affinity Diagramming
UX Research
Affinity Diagramming
Purposedifferent
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.The TOWS Matrix connects internal strengths and weaknesses with external opportunities and threats into action-oriented strategies. It goes a step further than a pure stocktaking.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
LowMediumLow
Timedifferent
30–60 min1-2 h45–90 min
Participantsdifferent
4-83-103-10
Formatsame
WorkshopWorkshopWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Empathy Map, Assumptions List, Research GapsTOWS Matrix, Strategic Options, Priority ActionsTheme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas
Tagsno overlap
SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop
StrategyAnalysisOptions
SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause
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Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.

Gap Analysis method illustration showing its working structure
Business Strategy
GAP Analysis
Paper illustration for Option Framing.
Decision Making
Option Framing
Paper illustration of a six-field PESTLE grid
Business Strategy
PESTLE Analysis
Paper illustration of a SWOT matrix with four separated quadrants and marked strategic options.
Business Strategy
SWOT Analysis