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| Criterion | ![]() Systems Thinking Iceberg Model | ![]() Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping | ![]() Operations A3 Problem Solving | ![]() Systems Thinking Behavior Over Time Graph |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | 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. | A Behavior Over Time Graph shows how a metric or observation develops over time. The method makes trends, breaks, and recurring patterns visible that get lost in snapshots. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 30-60 min | 1-2 h | 45-90 min | 20-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-10 | 3-12 | 2-5 | 1-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Iceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention Ideas | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | Behavior Over Time Graph, Trend Hypotheses, Key Events |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | Systems thinkingPatternsDynamics |



