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| Criterion | ![]() Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping | ![]() Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping | ![]() Facilitation Question Burst | ![]() Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | When a problem gets covered up too quickly with answers, Question Burst puts the better question at the center. The format opens the thinking space before the group commits to an interpretation. | Soft Systems Methodology helps explore unclear or politically charged problems systematically. Instead of forcing a quick answer, the method builds a shared understanding of perspectives and room for action. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | Low | High |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 1-2 h | 15-30 min | 0.5-3 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 1-8 | 2-8 | 5-15 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | Question List, Reframed Challenge, Learning Prompts | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | QuestionsReframingFacilitationSensemaking | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking |



