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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  Decision Making Constraint Analysis |  Business Strategy GAP Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | When an initiative stalls, the limit often lies not in the idea but in hard or soft boundary conditions. Constraint Analysis separates these limits and shows which of them can actually be shaped. | GAP Analysis compares the current state with a target picture and makes the distance manageable. It becomes useful when, ahead of new initiatives, it must become clear which capabilities, processes, or resources are missing. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 30-90 min | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 2-8 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Constraint List, Hard/Soft Classification, Option Impact Notes, Decision Boundaries | Gap Matrix, Action Plan, Risk Notes |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | ConstraintsDecisionPlanningOptions | StrategyAnalysisPlanning |
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