methodatlas
Compare

View methods side by side.

Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.

Criterion
Paper illustration for Soft Systems Methodology.
Systems Thinking
Soft Systems Methodology
Paper illustration of Leverage Points with its method-specific working model.
Systems Thinking
Leverage Points
Paper illustration of Futures Wheel with its method-specific working model.
Systems Thinking
Futures Wheel
Paper illustration for Future Reality Tree.
Systems Thinking
Future Reality Tree
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.Leverage Points show exactly where interventions in a system produce a disproportionate effect. It draws relationships, patterns, and feedback loops. The result is captured as a leverage map and action strategy.The Futures Wheel helps explore the consequences of a decision, a trend, or a strategic move in a structured way. It makes visible which first, second, and third-order effects could arise from an event.A Future Reality Tree shows how desired actions are meant to lead to a better system state. The method checks whether a path of change holds together logically before time flows into implementation.
Complexitydifferent
HighHighMediumHigh
Timedifferent
0.5-3 TageHalf day60-120 min2-4 h
Participantsdifferent
5-153-123-103-8
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change AgendaLeverage Map, Action StrategyFutures Wheel, Consequence Chains, Strategic SignalsFuture Reality Tree, Negative Branches, Assumption List, Improved Injections
Tags1 shared
Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking
Systems thinkingChangeStrategy
ForesightSystems thinkingSignals
Theory of ConstraintsSystems thinkingChange
Add more methods