View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion | ![]() Systems Thinking Leverage Points | ![]() Operations Family Tree Analysis | ![]() Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology | ![]() Operations 5 Whys |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | Leverage Points show exactly where interventions in a system produce a disproportionate effect. It draws relationships, patterns, and feedback loops. The result is captured as a leverage map and action strategy. | For a series of incidents with a similar pattern, the method arranges individual events as branches of a common origin. It makes visible which conditions keep recurring. | Soft Systems Methodology helps explore unclear or politically charged problems systematically. Instead of forcing a quick answer, the method builds a shared understanding of perspectives and room for action. | For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Medium | High | Low |
Timedifferent | Half day | 2-4 h | 0.5-3 Tage | 15-30 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 2-6 | 5-15 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Leverage Map, Action Strategy | Family Tree Diagram, Pattern Notes, Systemic Measures | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Root cause notes, Countermeasures |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingChangeStrategy | Root causePatternsIncidentSystemic | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving |



