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| Criterion |  Operations Process Mapping |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |  Product Strategy SMART Goals |  Operations Gemba Walk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | With a confusing workflow that has many handoffs, the method makes the actual process visible. It shows where work is passed on, delayed, or duplicated, so improvement targets the right spots. | For a complex deviation with several people involved, the method bundles problem, analysis, and decision onto one page. It creates a shared working space where causes, countermeasures, and follow-up fit together. | When goals are formulated too generally, it brings measurability, direction, and timing into shape. It prevents intentions from staying without clear verification. | When there is uncertainty about the real course of a process, the method brings observation to the place where work happens. It combines perception, follow-up questions, and process knowledge so decisions rest on actual workflows instead of assumptions. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 45-90 min | 15-30 min | 30-120 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-10 | 2-5 | 1-8 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Process Map, Handoff List, Improvement Backlog | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | SMART Goal, Measurement Note, Deadline | Observation Notes, Improvement Ideas |
Tagsno overlap | ProcessOperationsImprovement | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | GoalsPlanningMeasurementAlignment | LeanObservationProcessOperations |