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 Theory of Change | ![]() Business Strategy GAP Analysis | ![]() Systems Thinking Future Reality Tree |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | A Future Reality Tree shows how desired actions are meant to lead to a better system state. The method checks whether a path of change holds together logically before time flows into implementation. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 2-6 h | 1-3 h | 2-4 h |
Participantsdifferent | 4-12 | 2-8 | 3-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Theory of Change Map, Assumptions, Outcome Measures | Gap Matrix, Action Plan, Risk Notes | Future Reality Tree, Negative Branches, Assumption List, Improved Injections |
Tagsno overlap | ImpactOutcomesSystems thinkingStrategy | StrategyAnalysisPlanning | Theory of ConstraintsSystems thinkingChange |
Often compared together
Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.






