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Criterion
Paper illustration for World Café.
Facilitation
World Café
Paper illustration for Fishbowl Discussion.
Facilitation
Fishbowl Discussion
Paper illustration for Soft Systems Methodology.
Systems Thinking
Soft Systems Methodology
Purposedifferent
When a group needs to connect many viewpoints in a short time, World Café creates a calm alternation between closeness and rotation. It sets thinking in motion without forcing the conversation into full-plenary rigidity.When a controversial topic needs depth and discipline at the same time, Fishbowl Discussion makes the structure of the conversation transparent. The format keeps the core small enough for real dialogue and open enough for controlled turnover.Soft Systems Methodology helps explore unclear or politically charged problems systematically. Instead of forcing a quick answer, the method builds a shared understanding of perspectives and room for action.
Complexitydifferent
MediumMediumHigh
Timedifferent
60-180 min45-90 min0.5-3 Tage
Participantsdifferent
12-100+8-805-15
Formatsame
WorkshopWorkshopWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Table Notes, Emergent Themes, Shared QuestionsDiscussion Insights, Observed Tensions, Follow-up QuestionsRich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda
Tagsno overlap
FacilitationDialogueLarge groupSensemaking
FacilitationDialogueLarge group
Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking
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Often compared together

Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.

Paper illustration for Cynefin Workshop.
Decision Making
Cynefin Workshop
Paper Kanban board with To Discuss, Discussing and Discussed columns, topic cards, votes and timer.
Facilitation
Lean Coffee
Paper illustration for Open Space Technology.
Facilitation
Open Space Technology