methodatlas
Compare

View methods side by side.

Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.

Criterion
Gap Analysis method illustration showing its working structure
Business Strategy
GAP Analysis
Decision Tree method illustration showing its working structure
Decision Making
Decision Tree
Paper illustration of an assumption matrix with prioritized test cards
Decision Making
Assumption Surfacing
Paper illustration for TOWS Matrix.
Business Strategy
TOWS Matrix
Purposedifferent
GAP Analysis compares the current state with a target picture and makes the distance manageable. It becomes useful when, ahead of new initiatives, it must become clear which capabilities, processes, or resources are missing.For decisions with follow-on paths and dependencies, a linear comparison is often not enough. A Decision Tree shows how options branch under conditions and which consequences hang on each branch.Plans often contain assumptions that were never openly stated and remain dangerous precisely because of that. Assumption Surfacing makes these silent premises visible and prioritizes which of them carry the initiative or could sink it.The TOWS Matrix connects internal strengths and weaknesses with external opportunities and threats into action-oriented strategies. It goes a step further than a pure stocktaking.
Complexitydifferent
MediumMediumLowMedium
Timedifferent
1-3 h30-90 min45-90 min1-2 h
Participantsdifferent
2-81-62-83-10
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Gap Matrix, Action Plan, Risk NotesDecision Tree, Option Map, Assumption ListAssumption List, Critical Assumptions, Learning PlanTOWS Matrix, Strategic Options, Priority Actions
Tagsno overlap
StrategyAnalysisPlanning
DecisionTreeOptions
AssumptionsRiskDecisionDiscovery
StrategyAnalysisOptions
Add more methods