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Criterion
Paper illustration of a Polarity Map with two poles and four quadrants
Systems Thinking
Polarity Mapping
Paper illustration of Leverage Points with its method-specific working model.
Systems Thinking
Leverage Points
Iceberg Model method illustration showing its working structure
Systems Thinking
Iceberg Model
Paper illustration of Family Tree Analysis with its method-specific working model.
Operations
Family Tree Analysis
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.Leverage Points show exactly where interventions in a system produce a disproportionate effect. It draws relationships, patterns, and feedback loops. The result is captured as a leverage map and action strategy.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.For a series of incidents with a similar pattern, the method arranges individual events as branches of a common origin. It makes visible which conditions keep recurring.
Complexitydifferent
MediumHighLowMedium
Timedifferent
1-2 hHalf day30-60 min2-4 h
Participantsdifferent
3-123-122-102-6
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance ActionsLeverage Map, Action StrategyIceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention IdeasFamily Tree Diagram, Pattern Notes, Systemic Measures
Tagsno overlap
Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership
Systems thinkingChangeStrategy
Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns
Root causePatternsIncidentSystemic
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