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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping |  Operations 5 Whys |  Operations Barrier Analysis |  Operations 8D Problem Solving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | 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 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. | 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. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 15-30 min | 2-4 h | 1-6 Wochen |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 2-6 | 2-6 | 4-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | Root cause notes, Countermeasures | Barrier Inventory, Failure Analysis per Barrier, Action Backlog | 8D Report, Containment Plan, Root Cause Evidence, Corrective Action Plan |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving | Root causeSafetyIncident | QualityProblem solvingRoot cause |