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| Criterion |  Operations PDCA Cycle |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |  Operations 8D Problem Solving |  Operations DMAIC |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | For an acute quality or delivery problem, the method structures immediate protection and root cause work together. It keeps the situation stable while the actual cause is investigated cleanly. | For a process problem with fluctuating performance, the method brings analysis and improvement into a disciplined sequence. It creates a framework in which numbers, causes, and control come together. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | High | High |
Timedifferent | 1 h bis mehrere Wochen | 45–90 min | 1-6 Wochen | 2-12 Wochen |
Participantsdifferent | 1-8 | 3-10 | 4-10 | 3-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | PDCA Log, Experiment Plan, Learning Outcome, Standard Change | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | 8D Report, Containment Plan, Root Cause Evidence, Corrective Action Plan | Project Charter, Measurement Plan, Cause Analysis, Control Plan |
Tagsno overlap | Continuous improvementLeanExperiments | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | QualityProblem solvingRoot cause | Continuous improvementQualityProcess improvement |