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Selected:Root Cause Tree AnalysisAffinity DiagrammingA3 Problem SolvingFailure Mode and Effects Analysis
| Criterion |  Operations Root Cause Tree Analysis |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |  Operations Failure Mode and Effects Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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 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. | For a process, product, or service with noticeable failure risks, the method assesses possible failure modes in advance. It directs attention to combinations of occurrence, effect, and detectability. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 45–90 min | 45-90 min | 2-6 h |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 3-10 | 2-5 | 3-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Cause Tree, Evidence Notes, Countermeasures | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | FMEA Table, Risk Priority, Mitigation Actions |
Tagsno overlap | Root causeTreeIncidentQuality | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | RiskQualityOperationsRoot cause |