Concept Star
An Effective Analysis Tool

Concept Star Q Features

Feature Version 3.64 Version Q
Maximum number of ideas permitted Over 250 Over 500 (*)
Graphic display of relationship model yes yes
Automated model diagram layout yes yes
User controls model diagram layout Yes. You can move
and re-size Idea Boxes.
Yes. You can move
and re-size Idea Boxes.
Able to select Idea Box color yes yes
Relationship modeling tools Interpretive Structural Model
Linear Interpretive Model
Interrelationship Digraph
Interpretive Structural Model
Linear Interpretive Model
Interrelationship Digraph
Secondary relationships 3 types, user defined meaning 3 types, user defined meaning
Able to skip votes yes yes
Able to delete votes yes yes
Main relation phrase Choice of common relation phrases
or user can enter own relation phrase.
Choice of common relation phrases
or user can enter own relation phrase.
Enable secondary links
during voting
Must leave voting screen Done on voting screen so work is not interrupted
User control of vote order Able to change vote order Able to change vote order
Voting screen size Choice of 3 voting screen sizes Choice of 4 font sizes
with resizable voting screen.
Copy model to other programs
to include in reports
yes yes
Display Relationship Matrix no yes
Show details for
a specific relationship
yes yes. Integrated with matrix for visual
selection of relationship to examine
Updated windows technology X yes (**)
Contextual help (F1) yes Expanded help (***)
Text display font User selectable User selectable
Line width User selectable User selectable

(*) Maximum limit is determined by the Device memory and storage capacity
(**) Provides better longevity
(***) Requires internet connection
See features summary

Concept Star provides 3 relationship modeling tools:

It also offers a secondary relationship building tool that is available for use during the pair-wise analysis process.

Interpretive Structural Model (ISM)

Interpretive Structural Modeling, originally developed by J. Warfield in 1973, is an effective method for dealing with complex issues. It has been used successfully for over 25 years by specially trained consultants to help their clients understand complex situations and find solutions to complex problems.

ISM is useful for:

Of the 3 modeling tools included in Concept Star, ISM provides maximum time saving during the modeling session by minimizing the number of pair-wise analysis required to construct the relationship model.

Linear Interpretive Model (LIM)

LIM is an adaptation of ISM, which provides a more comprehensive model that is easier for most people to understand and interpret. In many cases the increase in the analysis time (compared to ISM) is a worthwhile investment, as it provides a more thorough analysis.

LIM is useful for:

Interrelationship Digraph (ID)

This is a computer implementation of the Interrelationship Digraph tool described in the book The Memory Jogger II.

ID is useful when:

Interrelationship Digraph provides the most detailed analysis and documentation of the relationships between various ideas of a situation. It does not use logical inferences to provide time saving or simplification of the relationship model.

ID is useful when there are a limited number of highly interrelated ideas to be 'untangled', especially when the ideas have circular (feedback) type of relationship.

Secondary Relationships Feature

Sometimes, during analysis of relationship between ideas, it is found that a significant type of relationship exists, different from the main relation being analyzed, but also important for decision-making. The secondary relationship feature allows you to capture this information, as a secondary link, on the Relationship Model. These additional links can (and should) have a different meaning than the main relationship being modeled. This feature is available for all 3 Relationship Modeling tools.

The main benefits of having this feature available are:

As an example, often participants like to see the impact on budget, IT, or other systems as a part of the discussion during the session.