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Criterion
Paper illustration for Theory of Change
Systems Thinking
Theory of Change
Paper illustration of Futures Wheel with its method-specific working model.
Systems Thinking
Futures Wheel
Paper illustration of VUCA Scan with its method-specific working model.
Systems Thinking
VUCA Scan
Purposedifferent
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.The Futures Wheel helps explore the consequences of a decision, a trend, or a strategic move in a structured way. It makes visible which first, second, and third-order effects could arise from an event.The VUCA Scan helps read difficult situations more precisely. Instead of treating unclarity as generally complicated, the method separates fast change, missing knowledge, systemic entanglement, and ambiguous interpretation.
Complexitydifferent
HighMediumLow
Timedifferent
2-6 h60-120 min30-90 min
Participantsdifferent
4-123-101-10
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Theory of Change Map, Assumptions, Outcome MeasuresFutures Wheel, Consequence Chains, Strategic SignalsVUCA Map, Response Options, Signal and Learning Plan
Tagsno overlap
ImpactOutcomesSystems thinkingStrategy
ForesightSystems thinkingSignals
SensemakingUncertaintyComplexityStrategyForesight
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Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.

Paper illustration for Soft Systems Methodology.
Systems Thinking
Soft Systems Methodology
Paper illustration for Cynefin Workshop.
Decision Making
Cynefin Workshop
Paper illustration for Impact Filter
Decision Making
Impact Filter
Paper illustration of a branching impact map with a Why goal at the root, actor circles, How behavior changes and What options.
Product Strategy
Impact Mapping