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Criterion
Iceberg Model method illustration showing its working structure
Systems Thinking
Iceberg Model
Design Thinking as a learning loop: an observation notebook, a focused problem statement, different idea sketches, a cardboard prototype and user-test notes. Feedback leads to new understanding.
Innovation
Design Thinking
Paper illustration for Causal Factor Analysis.
Operations
Causal Factor Analysis
Paper illustration of Barrier Analysis with its method-specific working model.
Operations
Barrier 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 complex user problems with an uncertain cause, the method connects observation, interpretation, and experiment into a learning cycle. It keeps the focus on real needs and avoids premature solution language. This produces robust decisions for product and service.For an event with a complicated course, the method breaks down the contributing factors along the timeline. It shows how conditions, decisions, and reactions together produce a course of events.For a risk that can only be managed through multiple layers of protection, the method examines the effectiveness of each barrier. It shows where safeguards are missing, too weak, or fail under real conditions.
Complexitydifferent
LowHighHighMedium
Timedifferent
30-60 min1 Tag bis mehrere Wochen2-6 h2-4 h
Participantsdifferent
2-104-103-102-6
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncWorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Iceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention IdeasProblem Statement, Prototype, Test LearningsEvent Timeline, Causal Factor Chart, Cause List, Corrective ActionsBarrier Inventory, Failure Analysis per Barrier, Action Backlog
Tagsno overlap
Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns
InnovationPrototypeResearch
CausalityIncidentRoot causeTimeline
Root causeSafetyIncident
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