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| Criterion |  Operations Time Blocking |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |  Operations 5 Whys |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | With a calendar that grows on request, the method makes available time explicit again. It combines appointments, focus work, and buffer into a more realistic day structure. | When research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. | For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description. | 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 | Low | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 15-30 min Planung, laufend | 45–90 min | 15-30 min | 45-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1 | 3-10 | 2-6 | 2-5 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Blocked Calendar, Capacity View, Focus Plan | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | Root cause notes, Countermeasures | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis |
Tagsno overlap | PlanningTime managementFocus | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations |