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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Systems Mapping |  Systems Thinking Iceberg Model |  Operations Kepner-Tregoe |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | Systems Mapping arranges elements, relationships, and boundaries so a complex field becomes legible at a glance. The overview stabilizes the overall picture before detail work or steering begins. | The Iceberg Model separates visible events from patterns, structures, and mental models. This turns a single observation into a deeper understanding of why a problem keeps recurring. | For a disturbance that's hard to pin down, the method cleanly separates problem, cause, and decision. It reduces mixing when symptoms allow several interpretations. | For a complex deviation with several people involved, the method bundles problem, analysis, and decision onto one page. It creates a shared working space where causes, countermeasures, and follow-up fit together. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | High | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 30-60 min | 2-8 h | 45-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 2-10 | 2-8 | 2-5 |
Formatsame | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | System Map, Dependencies, Leverage Points | Iceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention Ideas | Problem Analysis, Decision Analysis, Risk Plan | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingMappingBoundariesChange | Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns | Problem solvingRoot causeDecisionOperations | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations |