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| Criterion |  Operations PDCA Cycle |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |
|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For an improvement that still has to prove itself in everyday work, the method runs it through small learning loops. It connects planning, checking, and standardization into a repeatable learning mode. | 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 research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 1 h bis mehrere Wochen | 45-90 min | 45–90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-8 | 2-5 | 3-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | PDCA Log, Experiment Plan, Learning Outcome, Standard Change | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas |
Tagsno overlap | Continuous improvementLeanExperiments | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause |
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