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Criterion
Paper illustration for Soft Systems Methodology.
Systems Thinking
Soft Systems Methodology
Paper illustration for Cynefin Workshop.
Decision Making
Cynefin Workshop
Paper illustration of a decision table with criteria rows, weighted ratings, and a narrowly leading alternative.
Decision Making
Decision Matrix
Paper illustration of a Polarity Map with two poles and four quadrants
Systems Thinking
Polarity 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.When problems are unclear, chaotic, or only seemingly familiar, standard recipes fall short. A Cynefin Workshop sorts situations by the nature of their problem and connects them with matching action logic.When several options collide with several criteria, comparison quickly becomes subjective. A Decision Matrix makes the trade-off visible and brings weighting, criteria, and options into a shared logic.Polarity Mapping makes tensions between two opposing poles tangible, such as standardization and adaptation or control and autonomy. The method guards against making apparent either-or decisions prematurely.
Complexitydifferent
HighMediumMediumMedium
Timedifferent
0.5-3 Tage60-180 min45-90 min1-2 h
Participantsdifferent
5-154-202-83-12
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change AgendaCynefin Map, Domain-specific Actions, Sensemaking NotesDecision Matrix, Scoring Rationale, Selected OptionPolarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions
Tagsno overlap
Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking
ComplexitySensemakingDecision
DecisionCriteriaScoringTradeoffs
Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership
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