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| Criterion | ![]() Operations Theory of Constraints | ![]() Operations A3 Problem Solving | ![]() Operations ALPEN Method | ![]() Operations After-Action Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For a system that does not get faster despite effort, the method directs attention to the bottleneck. It concentrates improvement on the point that actually limits throughput. | 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. | With an overloaded day full of too many tasks, a realistic picture of the day emerges. The method connects estimating, deciding, and buffer thinking so planning fits available energy and time. | After missions or project phases with unclear outcomes, the method makes visible what actually happened and what can be learned from it. It separates course, effect, and causes so experience turns into solid improvement. |
Complexitydifferent | High | Medium | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 2-4 h Analyse, laufend | 45-90 min | 10-20 min daily | 20-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 2-5 | 1 | 3-12 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Constraint Map, Improvement Plan, Flow Metrics | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | Daily Plan, Time Estimates, Review Notes | Lessons learned, Action items, Event summary |
Tags1 shared | OperationsConstraintsFlowImprovement | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | PlanningTime managementProductivityOperations | LearningOperationsImprovement |



