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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  UX Research Empathy Mapping |  Facilitation Decision Jam |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 a decision is stuck, Decision Jam loosens the knot through structured separation of problem, idea, and selection. The format creates movement without jumping prematurely at the first seemingly elegant answer. | When research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 30–60 min | 60-90 min | 45–90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 4-8 | 4-10 | 3-10 |
Formatsame | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Empathy Map, Assumptions List, Research Gaps | Problem Cluster, Prioritized Challenge, Experiment | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop | FacilitationDecisionProblem solvingWorkshop | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause |