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 Gemba Walk | ![]() Knowledge Modeling IBIS | ![]() Architecture Architecture Decision Record | ![]() Operations A3 Problem Solving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | When there is uncertainty about the real course of a process, the method brings observation to the place where work happens. It combines perception, follow-up questions, and process knowledge so decisions rest on actual workflows instead of assumptions. | 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. | An ADR permanently records an architecture decision with context, trade-offs, and consequence. It creates continuity for later changes because the decision path stays traceable. | For a complex deviation with several people involved, the method bundles problem, analysis, and decision onto one page. It creates a shared working space where causes, countermeasures, and follow-up fit together. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 30-120 min | 1-3 h | 15-45 min | 45-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-6 | 2-8 | 1-3 | 2-5 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Observation Notes, Improvement Ideas | Issue Map, Positions, Argument Notes | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis |
Tagsno overlap | LeanObservationProcessOperations | RationaleKnowledgeDecision | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations |



