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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Future Reality Tree |  Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping |  Systems Thinking Iceberg Model |  Operations Change Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | Concept Mapping arranges terms and relationships in a network that makes subject-matter connections tangible. It fits when a topic needs to be understood structurally rather than linearly. | 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. | For a deviation after a change, the method isolates the influence of the altered condition. It narrows down which differences are relevant and which are just accompanying noise. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Medium | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 2-4 h | 1-2 h | 30-60 min | 45-120 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-8 | 1-8 | 2-10 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Future Reality Tree, Negative Branches, Assumption List, Improved Injections | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | Iceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention Ideas | Change Matrix, Cause Hypotheses, Validation Questions, Action List |
Tagsno overlap | Theory of ConstraintsSystems thinkingChange | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns | ChangeRoot causeTroubleshootingComparison |