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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping |  Decision Making Delphi Method |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Systems Thinking Stock and Flow Diagram |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | When knowledge is distributed and direct dominance should be avoided, groups quickly fall under the sway of their opinion leaders. The Delphi Method gathers assessments iteratively and gradually brings expert judgments closer together. | 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. | A Stock and Flow Diagram shows how stocks, inflows, and outflows shape a system over time. It is especially suited when growth, delays, or capacity limits determine the dynamics. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | High | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 1-4 Wochen | 1-3 h | 2-6 h |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 6-30 Experten | 2-8 | 1-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | Expert Forecast, Consensus Range, Assumption Notes | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Stock and Flow Model, Dynamics Notes, Simulation Hypotheses |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | ForecastingExpertsDecisionStrategy | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | DynamicsSimulationFeedbackSystems thinking |