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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping |  Systems Thinking Futures Wheel |  Systems Thinking VUCA Scan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | Polarity Mapping makes tensions between two opposing poles tangible, such as standardization and adaptation or control and autonomy. The method guards against making apparent either-or decisions prematurely. | 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. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Medium | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 1-2 h | 60-120 min | 30-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 3-12 | 3-10 | 1-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | Futures Wheel, Consequence Chains, Strategic Signals | VUCA Map, Response Options, Signal and Learning Plan |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | ForesightSystems thinkingSignals | SensemakingUncertaintyComplexityStrategyForesight |