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| Criterion |  Operations Root Cause Tree Analysis |  Operations 5 Whys |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |  Operations 8D Problem Solving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For a problem with several suspected causes, the method builds a causal structure instead of a mere list. It makes visible how causes connect and where the strongest points of leverage lie. | For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description. | When research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. | For an acute quality or delivery problem, the method structures immediate protection and root cause work together. It keeps the situation stable while the actual cause is investigated cleanly. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low | High |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 15-30 min | 45–90 min | 1-6 Wochen |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 2-6 | 3-10 | 4-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Cause Tree, Evidence Notes, Countermeasures | Root cause notes, Countermeasures | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | 8D Report, Containment Plan, Root Cause Evidence, Corrective Action Plan |
Tags1 shared | Root causeTreeIncidentQuality | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | QualityProblem solvingRoot cause |