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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  Systems Thinking Theory of Change |  Business Strategy GAP Analysis |  Product Strategy GIST Planning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | GAP Analysis compares the current state with a target picture and makes the distance manageable. It becomes useful when, ahead of new initiatives, it must become clear which capabilities, processes, or resources are missing. | GIST Planning helps clarify target groups, value, goals, and priorities. It links customer value, product logic, and decision priorities, and captures the result as goals, an idea bank, and a step-project list. |
Complexitydifferent | High | High | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 0.5-3 Tage | 2-6 h | 1-3 h | Wochen bis Monate je Goal |
Participantsdifferent | 5-15 | 4-12 | 2-8 | 3-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | Theory of Change Map, Assumptions, Outcome Measures | Gap Matrix, Action Plan, Risk Notes | Goals, Idea bank, Step-project list, Tasks, Learning reports |
Tagsno overlap | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | ImpactOutcomesSystems thinkingStrategy | StrategyAnalysisPlanning | RoadmapOutcomesPlanningExperiments |