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| Criterion |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |  Architecture C4 Model |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | When research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. | The C4 Model makes a system legible across several resolution levels, from context down to code. It suits situations where different audiences need to understand the same architecture from different altitudes. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 15-45 min | 45–90 min | 1-4 h |
Participantsdifferent | 1-3 | 3-10 | 1-5 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization |
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