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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  Operations Change Analysis |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Systems Thinking Current Reality Tree |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | Soft Systems Methodology helps explore unclear or politically charged problems systematically. Instead of forcing a quick answer, the method builds a shared understanding of perspectives and room for action. | For a deviation after a change, the method isolates the influence of the altered condition. It narrows down which differences are relevant and which are just accompanying noise. | 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. | A Current Reality Tree condenses many symptoms into a few causal chains. The method makes visible which core problems drive several negative effects at once. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Medium | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 45-120 min | 1-3 h | 2-6 h |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 2-6 | 2-8 | 3-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Change Matrix, Cause Hypotheses, Validation Questions, Action List | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Current Reality Tree, Core Problems, Intervention Ideas |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | ChangeRoot causeTroubleshootingComparison | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | Systems thinkingRoot causeConstraintsCausality |