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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping |  Business Strategy TOWS Matrix |  Systems Thinking Future Reality Tree |  Business Strategy GAP 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. | The TOWS Matrix connects internal strengths and weaknesses with external opportunities and threats into action-oriented strategies. It goes a step further than a pure stocktaking. | A Future Reality Tree shows how desired actions are meant to lead to a better system state. The method checks whether a path of change holds together logically before time flows into implementation. | GAP Analysis compares the current state with a target picture and makes the distance manageable. It becomes useful when, ahead of new initiatives, it must become clear which capabilities, processes, or resources are missing. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | High | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 1-2 h | 2-4 h | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 3-10 | 3-8 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | TOWS Matrix, Strategic Options, Priority Actions | Future Reality Tree, Negative Branches, Assumption List, Improved Injections | Gap Matrix, Action Plan, Risk Notes |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | StrategyAnalysisOptions | Theory of ConstraintsSystems thinkingChange | StrategyAnalysisPlanning |