View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion | ![]() Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology | ![]() Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping | ![]() Systems Thinking Evaporating Cloud |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | Concept Mapping arranges terms and relationships in a network that makes subject-matter connections tangible. It fits when a topic needs to be understood structurally rather than linearly. | The method makes visible why two seemingly incompatible demands arise and which assumption must be tested to resolve the conflict. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 1-2 h | 60-120 min |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 1-8 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | Conflict Cloud, Assumption List, Breakthrough Ideas, Next Experiments |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | Theory of ConstraintsAssumptionsSystems thinking |
Often compared together
Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.






