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Criterion
A3 Problem-Solving workspace showing the question, observations, and next decision.
Operations
A3 Problem Solving
Paper illustration with architecture components and concrete change tasks for comparison.
Architecture
SAAM (Software Architecture Analysis Method)
Paper illustration for ALPEN Method
Operations
ALPEN Method
Purposedifferent
For a complex deviation with several people involved, the method bundles problem, analysis, and decision onto one page. It creates a shared working space where causes, countermeasures, and follow-up fit together.SAAM helps teams judge an architecture’s suitability for selected tasks and changes. It is particularly useful for examining modifiability and comparing architecture alternatives with clear reasoning.With an overloaded day full of too many tasks, a realistic picture of the day emerges. The method connects estimating, deciding, and buffer thinking so planning fits available energy and time.
Complexitydifferent
MediumHighLow
Timedifferent
45-90 minPreparation, scenario analysis, and findings review; effort depends on scope10-20 min daily
Participantsdifferent
2-5Architecture experts and stakeholders for scenarios and weighting1
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncAsync
Outputdifferent
A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause AnalysisDomain functions mapped to components and connections, Quality attributes and evaluation criteria, Typical tasks and their effects on the architecture, Reasoned evaluation or comparison of alternativesDaily Plan, Time Estimates, Review Notes
Tagsno overlap
LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations
ArchitectureChangeAnalysisComparisonQuality
PlanningTime managementProductivityOperations
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Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.

Four paper stations connect system purpose, quality goals, risk cards and focused investigation with a target and gap profile.
Architecture
LASR (Lightweight Approach for Software Reviews)
Paper illustration for 8D Problem Solving.
Operations
8D Problem Solving
Paper illustration: scenarios and architectural decisions are connected to identified risks.
Architecture
ATAM (Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method)