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Criterion
Paper illustration for Soft Systems Methodology.
Systems Thinking
Soft Systems Methodology
Paper illustration of a Concept Map with concepts and labelled links
Knowledge Modeling
Concept Mapping
Systems Mapping method illustration showing its working structure
Systems Thinking
Systems Mapping
Paper illustration for Knowledge Mapping.
Knowledge Modeling
Knowledge 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.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.Knowledge Mapping makes knowledge, gaps, and transfer paths visible across a field. It fits when expertise should not just exist but also be findable and transferable.
Complexitydifferent
HighMediumMediumMedium
Timedifferent
0.5-3 Tage1-2 h1-3 h1-3 h
Participantsdifferent
5-151-83-123-12
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change AgendaConcept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge GapsSystem Map, Dependencies, Leverage PointsKnowledge Map, Critical Knowledge Areas, Transfer Plan
Tagsno overlap
Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking
KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking
Systems thinkingMappingBoundariesChange
KnowledgeMappingRisk
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