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| Criterion |  Business Strategy TOWS Matrix |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |  Business Strategy GAP Analysis |  UX Research Empathy Mapping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | The TOWS Matrix connects internal strengths and weaknesses with external opportunities and threats into action-oriented strategies. It goes a step further than a pure stocktaking. | 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. | 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. | When a lot is assumed about a target group but little is seen jointly, empathy mapping makes knowledge and gaps directly comparable. The picture also shows which assumptions hold up and where evidence is missing. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 45–90 min | 1-3 h | 30–60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-10 | 3-10 | 2-8 | 4-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | TOWS Matrix, Strategic Options, Priority Actions | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | Gap Matrix, Action Plan, Risk Notes | Empathy Map, Assumptions List, Research Gaps |
Tagsno overlap | StrategyAnalysisOptions | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | StrategyAnalysisPlanning | SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop |