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| Criterion |  Innovation How Might We |  Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |
|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | With a stuck problem carrying many implicit assumptions, the method translates observations into open, workable questions. It sharpens the problem frame without pre-thinking the solution, turning frustration or fuzziness into a search space with clear direction. | 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. | Soft Systems Methodology helps explore unclear or politically charged problems systematically. Instead of forcing a quick answer, the method builds a shared understanding of perspectives and room for action. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 30–45 min | 1-2 h | 0.5-3 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 1-10 | 3-12 | 5-15 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | HMW Questions, Challenge Framing, Idea Prompts | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda |
Tagsno overlap | FramingOpportunityIdeationQuestions | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking |
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