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| Criterion | ![]() Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology | ![]() Facilitation Question Burst | ![]() Facilitation Fishbowl Discussion | ![]() Facilitation Lean Coffee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | When a controversial topic needs depth and discipline at the same time, Fishbowl Discussion makes the structure of the conversation transparent. The format keeps the core small enough for real dialogue and open enough for controlled turnover. | When a group without a fixed agenda needs to get into useful conversations quickly, Lean Coffee structures the start around interests rather than a presentation. The group itself negotiates which topics get time first and which wait. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Low | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 15-30 min | 45-90 min | 30-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 2-8 | 8-80 | 3-20 |
Formatsame | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Question List, Reframed Challenge, Learning Prompts | Discussion Insights, Observed Tensions, Follow-up Questions | Prioritized Topics, Discussion Notes, Action Items |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | QuestionsReframingFacilitationSensemaking | FacilitationDialogueLarge group | FacilitationAutonomyDialogue |



