View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  Systems Thinking Theory of Change |  Decision Making Cynefin Workshop |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | Theory of Change translates a desired impact into a traceable chain of change. It makes assumptions, intermediate goals, and measurement points visible before a program is rolled out at scale. | When problems are unclear, chaotic, or only seemingly familiar, standard recipes fall short. A Cynefin Workshop sorts situations by the nature of their problem and connects them with matching action logic. |
Complexitydifferent | High | High | Medium |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 2-6 h | 60-180 min |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 4-12 | 4-20 |
Formatsame | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Theory of Change Map, Assumptions, Outcome Measures | Cynefin Map, Domain-specific Actions, Sensemaking Notes |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | ImpactOutcomesSystems thinkingStrategy | ComplexitySensemakingDecision |
Often compared together
Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.
