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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  Operations PDCA Cycle |  Systems Thinking VUCA Scan |  Systems Thinking Futures Wheel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | The VUCA Scan helps read difficult situations more precisely. Instead of treating unclarity as generally complicated, the method separates fast change, missing knowledge, systemic entanglement, and ambiguous interpretation. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 1 h bis mehrere Wochen | 30-90 min | 60-120 min |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 1-8 | 1-10 | 3-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | PDCA Log, Experiment Plan, Learning Outcome, Standard Change | VUCA Map, Response Options, Signal and Learning Plan | Futures Wheel, Consequence Chains, Strategic Signals |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | Continuous improvementLeanExperiments | SensemakingUncertaintyComplexityStrategyForesight | ForesightSystems thinkingSignals |