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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  Operations PDCA Cycle |  Operations Kaizen Event |  Systems Thinking Rich Picture |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | For an improvement that still has to prove itself in everyday work, the method runs it through small learning loops. It connects planning, checking, and standardization into a repeatable learning mode. | For a tightly scoped process segment with noticeable waste, the method bundles shared energy for change. It suits situations that call for fast learning loops and visible adjustments. | A Rich Picture brings an unclear situation onto a shared drawing. It captures actors, tensions, information flows, and blind spots before the team jumps to solutions too early. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Low | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 1 h bis mehrere Wochen | 0.5-5 Tage | 30-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 1-8 | 4-10 | 2-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | PDCA Log, Experiment Plan, Learning Outcome, Standard Change | Kaizen Charter, Waste List, Improvement Experiments, Standard Work Update | Rich Picture, Problem Framing Notes |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | Continuous improvementLeanExperiments | LeanContinuous improvementOperations | Systems thinkingSoft systemsFramingVisualization |