methodatlas
Compare

View methods side by side.

Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.

Criterion
Paper illustration for TOWS Matrix.
Business Strategy
TOWS Matrix
Paper illustration for Constraint Analysis.
Decision Making
Constraint Analysis
Paper illustration of Decision Rights Mapping with its method-specific working model.
Decision Making
Decision Rights Mapping
Gap Analysis method illustration showing its working structure
Business Strategy
GAP Analysis
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 an initiative stalls, the limit often lies not in the idea but in hard or soft boundary conditions. Constraint Analysis separates these limits and shows which of them can actually be shaped.In organizations with many stakeholders, it often blurs who actually decides and who is merely consulted. It separates options, evaluation criteria, and open risks. The result is captured as a Decision Rights matrix and an agreement.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.
Complexitydifferent
MediumLowMediumMedium
Timedifferent
1-2 h30-90 min90-180 min1-3 h
Participantsdifferent
3-102-84-122-8
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshopWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
TOWS Matrix, Strategic Options, Priority ActionsConstraint List, Hard/Soft Classification, Option Impact Notes, Decision BoundariesDecision Rights Matrix, AgreementGap Matrix, Action Plan, Risk Notes
Tagsno overlap
StrategyAnalysisOptions
ConstraintsDecisionPlanningOptions
DecisionGovernanceAlignmentResponsibility
StrategyAnalysisPlanning
Add more methods