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| Criterion | ![]() Knowledge Modeling IBIS | ![]() UX Research Affinity Diagramming | ![]() Decision Making DACI | ![]() Decision Making Argument Mapping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | 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. | When research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. | In cross-functional decisions, responsibilities quickly blur between approval, influence, and execution. DACI arranges these roles so decision pressure, contribution, and information stay cleanly separated. | When statements, evidence, and counterarguments get mixed up, a debate quickly loses its structure. Argument Mapping breaks a thesis down into its reasoning and makes visible what it really rests on. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 45–90 min | 30-60 min | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 3-10 | 2-10 | 1-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Issue Map, Positions, Argument Notes | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | DACI Matrix, Decision Owner, Decision Log | Argument Map, Evidence Gaps, Decision Rationale |
Tagsno overlap | RationaleKnowledgeDecision | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | DecisionRolesGovernanceAlignment | SensemakingDecisionRationale |



