Tool 213: Venn Diagram

AKA

N/A

Classification

Evaluating/Selecting (ES)

Tool description

A Venn diagram can be used to identify logical relationships, and it is very useful in displaying the union and intersection of events or sets. It can graphically illustrate the mutually exclusive concept and other rules of probability or the outcome of an experiment.

Typical application

• To illustrate the relationship of events, sets, or behavior.

• To help understand the consequences when two events intersect or are combined.

• To test the validity of a syllogism by applying logical thinking.

Problem-solving phase

→	Select and define problem or opportunity
	Identify and analyze causes or potential change
→	Develop and plan possible solutions or change
	Implement and evaluate solution or change
	Measure and report solution or change results
	Recognize and reward team efforts

Typically used by

2	Research/statistics
1	Creativity/innovation
	Engineering
	Project management
	Manufacturing
	Marketing/sales
	Administration/documentation
	Servicing/support
	Customer/quality metrics
	Change management

links to other tools

before

• Influence Diagram

• Morphological Analysis

• Organization Mapping

• Double Reversal

• Starbursting

after

• Mental Imaging

• Fresh Eye

• Forced association

• Cluster Analysis

• Truth Table

Notes and key points

• Developed by John Venn (1978), a Venn diagram is shown as a rectangle that contains the "sample space" with circles drawn inside to represent all possibilities of interaction and noninteraction of events. To gain more insight into applications within the field of possibility and logic, a textbook on statistics should be referenced.

Step-by-step procedure

• STEP 1 Identify events or sets and their relationships, interactions or outcomes that may be better understood using a Venn diagram. See example Venn Diagram Applications.

• STEP 2 Construct a Venn diagram, designate the circles and provide explanations. Run-it-by others for their comments.

• STEP 3 Display in training sessions or presentations to facilitate conceptual understanding.

• STEP 4 Identify examples to illustrate the concept.

Example of tool application

Venn Diagram Applications