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Criterion
Iceberg Model method illustration showing its working structure
Systems Thinking
Iceberg Model
A3 Problem-Solving workspace showing the question, observations, and next decision.
Operations
A3 Problem Solving
Paper fishbone diagram with a measurable effect at the head and six labeled cause branches.
Operations
Fishbone Diagram
Paper illustration for Failure Mode and Effects Analysis
Operations
Failure Mode and Effects Analysis
Purposedifferent
The Iceberg Model separates visible events from patterns, structures, and mental models. This turns a single observation into a deeper understanding of why a problem keeps recurring.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.When a problem has several possible contributing factors, the method sorts causes by cause areas. It prevents an initial hunch from blocking the view of other plausible drivers.For a process, product, or service with noticeable failure risks, the method assesses possible failure modes in advance. It directs attention to combinations of occurrence, effect, and detectability.
Complexitydifferent
LowMediumLowHigh
Timedifferent
30-60 min45-90 min30-60 min2-6 h
Participantsdifferent
2-102-52-83-10
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshopWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Iceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention IdeasA3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause AnalysisFishbone Diagram, Cause Categories, Investigation BacklogFMEA Table, Risk Priority, Mitigation Actions
Tagsno overlap
Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns
LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations
Root causeQualityOperations
RiskQualityOperationsRoot cause
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