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| Criterion |  Operations Root Cause Tree Analysis |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |
|---|---|---|---|
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 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 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 45-90 min | 45–90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 2-5 | 3-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Cause Tree, Evidence Notes, Countermeasures | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas |
Tagsno overlap | Root causeTreeIncidentQuality | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause |
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