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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping |  Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping |  Systems Thinking Iceberg Model |  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. | Concept Mapping arranges terms and relationships in a network that makes subject-matter connections tangible. It fits when a topic needs to be understood structurally rather than linearly. | 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. | 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 | Low | High |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 1-2 h | 30-60 min | 2-6 h |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 1-8 | 2-10 | 3-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | Iceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention Ideas | Current Reality Tree, Core Problems, Intervention Ideas |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns | Systems thinkingRoot causeConstraintsCausality |