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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  Operations Process Mapping |  Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping |  Operations Gemba Walk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | With a confusing workflow that has many handoffs, the method makes the actual process visible. It shows where work is passed on, delayed, or duplicated, so improvement targets the right spots. | Concept Mapping arranges terms and relationships in a network that makes subject-matter connections tangible. It fits when a topic needs to be understood structurally rather than linearly. | When there is uncertainty about the real course of a process, the method brings observation to the place where work happens. It combines perception, follow-up questions, and process knowledge so decisions rest on actual workflows instead of assumptions. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Medium | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 1-3 h | 1-2 h | 30-120 min |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 3-10 | 1-8 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Process Map, Handoff List, Improvement Backlog | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | Observation Notes, Improvement Ideas |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | ProcessOperationsImprovement | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | LeanObservationProcessOperations |