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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |  Systems Thinking Current Reality Tree |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | A Causal Loop Diagram makes feedback, reinforcement, and balance in a system legible. It uncovers side effects and self-reinforcement that stay hidden in linear explanations. | 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. | A Current Reality Tree condenses many symptoms into a few causal chains. The method makes visible which core problems drive several negative effects at once. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 1-3 h | 45-90 min | 2-6 h |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 2-8 | 2-5 | 3-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | Current Reality Tree, Core Problems, Intervention Ideas |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | Systems thinkingRoot causeConstraintsCausality |