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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping |  Facilitation Stakeholder Mapping |  Systems Thinking Systems Mapping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | When an initiative depends on many people, interests, and power dynamics, Stakeholder Mapping systematically orders the environment. It shows who influences, who is affected, and where relationship management or safeguarding matters first. | Systems Mapping arranges elements, relationships, and boundaries so a complex field becomes legible at a glance. The overview stabilizes the overall picture before detail work or steering begins. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Medium | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 1-2 h | 60–90 min | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 1-8 | 2-8 | 3-12 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | Stakeholder Map, Engagement Plan, Risk Notes | System Map, Dependencies, Leverage Points |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | StakeholdersAlignmentFacilitationChange | Systems thinkingMappingBoundariesChange |