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Criterion
Paper illustration of Futures Wheel with its method-specific working model.
Systems Thinking
Futures Wheel
Paper illustration of a decision table with criteria rows, weighted ratings, and a narrowly leading alternative.
Decision Making
Decision Matrix
Paper illustration of an IBIS map with issues, positions and arguments
Knowledge Modeling
IBIS
Paper illustration of a Polarity Map with two poles and four quadrants
Systems Thinking
Polarity Mapping
Purposedifferent
The Futures Wheel helps explore the consequences of a decision, a trend, or a strategic move in a structured way. It makes visible which first, second, and third-order effects could arise from an event.When several options collide with several criteria, comparison quickly becomes subjective. A Decision Matrix makes the trade-off visible and brings weighting, criteria, and options into a shared logic.IBIS structures thinking about complex questions as a sequence of issues, ideas, and arguments. The method keeps discussions open without forcing them into premature consensus.Polarity Mapping makes tensions between two opposing poles tangible, such as standardization and adaptation or control and autonomy. The method guards against making apparent either-or decisions prematurely.
Complexitysame
MediumMediumMediumMedium
Timedifferent
60-120 min45-90 min1-3 h1-2 h
Participantsdifferent
3-102-82-83-12
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Futures Wheel, Consequence Chains, Strategic SignalsDecision Matrix, Scoring Rationale, Selected OptionIssue Map, Positions, Argument NotesPolarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions
Tagsno overlap
ForesightSystems thinkingSignals
DecisionCriteriaScoringTradeoffs
RationaleKnowledgeDecision
Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership
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