View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Facilitation Expectation Mapping |  Operations PDCA Cycle |  Operations 5 Whys |  Facilitation Alignment Mapping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | When roles, interfaces, or projects fail because of differing expectations, Expectation Mapping surfaces these differences. It shows what each side takes for granted and where the pictures diverge. | For an improvement that still has to prove itself in everyday work, the method runs it through small learning loops. It connects planning, checking, and standardization into a repeatable learning mode. | For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description. | When several people work toward one goal but hold different mental maps, Alignment Mapping makes the discrepancies visible. It arranges goals, assumptions, and priorities so shared direction becomes verifiable. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 45-90 min | 1 h bis mehrere Wochen | 15-30 min | 1-2 h |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 1-8 | 2-6 | 4-12 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Expectation Map, Alignment Notes, Agreements | PDCA Log, Experiment Plan, Learning Outcome, Standard Change | Root cause notes, Countermeasures | Alignment Map, Open Issues, Decision Questions |
Tagsno overlap | AlignmentStakeholdersTeam | Continuous improvementLeanExperiments | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving | AlignmentStakeholdersStrategyFacilitation |