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Criterion
Paper illustration of a Polarity Map with two poles and four quadrants
Systems Thinking
Polarity Mapping
A3 Problem-Solving workspace showing the question, observations, and next decision.
Operations
A3 Problem Solving
Paper illustration of Family Tree Analysis with its method-specific working model.
Operations
Family Tree Analysis
Iceberg Model method illustration showing its working structure
Systems Thinking
Iceberg Model
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 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.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.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.
Complexitydifferent
MediumMediumMediumLow
Timedifferent
1-2 h45-90 min2-4 h30-60 min
Participantsdifferent
3-122-52-62-10
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance ActionsA3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause AnalysisFamily Tree Diagram, Pattern Notes, Systemic MeasuresIceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention Ideas
Tagsno overlap
Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership
LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations
Root causePatternsIncidentSystemic
Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns
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