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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  Systems Thinking Intervention Mapping |  Decision Making Argument Mapping |  Knowledge Modeling IBIS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | Intervention Mapping translates a need for change into a planned, evaluable program. The method connects target group, determinants, actions, and measurement into a traceable chain. | 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. | IBIS structures thinking about complex questions as a sequence of issues, ideas, and arguments. The method keeps discussions open without forcing them into premature consensus. |
Complexitydifferent | High | High | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 1-5 Tage | 1-3 h | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 4-12 | 1-8 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Logic Model, Change Objectives, Intervention Components, Evaluation Plan | Argument Map, Evidence Gaps, Decision Rationale | Issue Map, Positions, Argument Notes |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | ChangeSystems thinkingCapability | SensemakingDecisionRationale | RationaleKnowledgeDecision |