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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping |  Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  Systems Thinking Rich Picture |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | A Rich Picture brings an unclear situation onto a shared drawing. It captures actors, tensions, information flows, and blind spots before the team jumps to solutions too early. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | High | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 1-2 h | 0.5-3 Tage | 30-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 1-8 | 5-15 | 2-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Rich Picture, Problem Framing Notes |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | Systems thinkingSoft systemsFramingVisualization |