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| Criterion | ![]() Knowledge Modeling IBIS | ![]() Facilitation Fishbowl Discussion | ![]() Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping | ![]() Facilitation World Café |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 a controversial topic needs depth and discipline at the same time, Fishbowl Discussion makes the structure of the conversation transparent. The format keeps the core small enough for real dialogue and open enough for controlled turnover. | Concept Mapping arranges terms and relationships in a network that makes subject-matter connections tangible. It fits when a topic needs to be understood structurally rather than linearly. | When a group needs to connect many viewpoints in a short time, World Café creates a calm alternation between closeness and rotation. It sets thinking in motion without forcing the conversation into full-plenary rigidity. |
Complexitysame | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 45-90 min | 1-2 h | 60-180 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 8-80 | 1-8 | 12-100+ |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Issue Map, Positions, Argument Notes | Discussion Insights, Observed Tensions, Follow-up Questions | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | Table Notes, Emergent Themes, Shared Questions |
Tagsno overlap | RationaleKnowledgeDecision | FacilitationDialogueLarge group | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | FacilitationDialogueLarge groupSensemaking |



