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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping |  Systems Thinking Wardley Mapping |  Product Strategy Impact Mapping |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop 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. | Wardley Mapping makes visible where an offering stands today and where it can evolve. The method connects user need, value chain, and evolution stages into a strategic basis for platform, build, or buy decisions. | When a goal needs to be connected to several possible paths, it shows chains of impact instead of feature lists. It connects business goal, behavior change, and measures. | 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. |
Complexitysame | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 1-3 h | 45-90 min | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 2-10 | 3-8 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | Wardley Map, Strategic Options, Evolution Notes | Impact Map, Outcome Hypotheses, Delivery Options | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | StrategySystems thinkingDynamics | OutcomesStrategyBehaviorPlanning | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics |