View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Operations Family Tree Analysis |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Systems Thinking Current Reality Tree |  Systems Thinking Iceberg Model |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For a series of incidents with a similar pattern, the method arranges individual events as branches of a common origin. It makes visible which conditions keep recurring. | A Causal Loop Diagram makes feedback, reinforcement, and balance in a system legible. It uncovers side effects and self-reinforcement that stay hidden in linear explanations. | A Current Reality Tree condenses many symptoms into a few causal chains. The method makes visible which core problems drive several negative effects at once. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | High | Low |
Timedifferent | 2-4 h | 1-3 h | 2-6 h | 30-60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-6 | 2-8 | 3-8 | 2-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Family Tree Diagram, Pattern Notes, Systemic Measures | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Current Reality Tree, Core Problems, Intervention Ideas | Iceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention Ideas |
Tagsno overlap | Root causePatternsIncidentSystemic | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | Systems thinkingRoot causeConstraintsCausality | Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns |