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| Criterion |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Operations 5 Whys |  DevOps Incident Command |  Operations Runbook |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | An ADR permanently records an architecture decision with context, trade-offs, and consequence. It creates continuity for later changes because the decision path stays traceable. | For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description. | During an acute incident with several people involved, the method creates a clear leadership and communication structure. It reduces chaos when fast coordination and clean situational awareness are both needed at once. | For recurring operational tasks or incidents, the method keeps solid action logic ready. It reduces uncertainty when time pressure, role changes, or rare situations demand fast access. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 15-45 min | 15-30 min | As needed | 20-60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-3 | 2-6 | 4-15 | 1-4 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop | Workshop + async | Async |
Outputdifferent | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Root cause notes, Countermeasures | Incident Log, Action Tracker, Stakeholder Updates | Runbook, Checklist, Escalation Path |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving | IncidentOperationsReliability | OperationsReliabilityDocumentation |