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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  UX Research Empathy Mapping |  Decision Making Argument 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 a lot is assumed about a target group but little is seen jointly, empathy mapping makes knowledge and gaps directly comparable. The picture also shows which assumptions hold up and where evidence is missing. | When statements, evidence, and counterarguments get mixed up, a debate quickly loses its structure. Argument Mapping breaks a thesis down into its reasoning and makes visible what it really rests on. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 30–60 min | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 4-8 | 1-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Empathy Map, Assumptions List, Research Gaps | Argument Map, Evidence Gaps, Decision Rationale |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop | SensemakingDecisionRationale |
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