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Criterion
Paper illustration for Soft Systems Methodology.
Systems Thinking
Soft Systems Methodology
Paper illustration of a Polarity Map with two poles and four quadrants
Systems Thinking
Polarity Mapping
Paper illustration of many question cards around one challenge
Facilitation
Question Burst
Paper illustration of VUCA Scan with its method-specific working model.
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.When a problem gets covered up too quickly with answers, Question Burst puts the better question at the center. The format opens the thinking space before the group commits to an interpretation.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
HighMediumLowLow
Timedifferent
0.5-3 Tage1-2 h15-30 min30-90 min
Participantsdifferent
5-153-122-81-10
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshopWorkshopWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change AgendaPolarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance ActionsQuestion List, Reframed Challenge, Learning PromptsVUCA Map, Response Options, Signal and Learning Plan
Tagsno overlap
Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking
Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership
QuestionsReframingFacilitationSensemaking
SensemakingUncertaintyComplexityStrategyForesight
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