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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Future Reality Tree |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Operations 5 Whys |  Systems Thinking Current Reality Tree |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | A Future Reality Tree shows how desired actions are meant to lead to a better system state. The method checks whether a path of change holds together logically before time flows into implementation. | 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. | 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. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Medium | Low | High |
Timedifferent | 2-4 h | 1-3 h | 15-30 min | 2-6 h |
Participantsdifferent | 3-8 | 2-8 | 2-6 | 3-8 |
Formatsame | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Future Reality Tree, Negative Branches, Assumption List, Improved Injections | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Root cause notes, Countermeasures | Current Reality Tree, Core Problems, Intervention Ideas |
Tagsno overlap | Theory of ConstraintsSystems thinkingChange | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving | Systems thinkingRoot causeConstraintsCausality |