View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Operations After-Action Review |  Architecture arc42 |  Operations Process Mapping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | After missions or project phases with unclear outcomes, the method makes visible what actually happened and what can be learned from it. It separates course, effect, and causes so experience turns into solid improvement. | arc42 structures architecture knowledge so teams can document system, decisions, and risks consistently. The template builds a living understanding of the architecture instead of scattered notes. | With a confusing workflow that has many handoffs, the method makes the actual process visible. It shows where work is passed on, delayed, or duplicated, so improvement targets the right spots. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 15-45 min | 20-45 min | 1-2 Tage | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 1-3 | 3-12 | 1-4 | 3-10 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Lessons learned, Action items, Event summary | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View | Process Map, Handoff List, Improvement Backlog |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | LearningOperationsImprovement | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication | ProcessOperationsImprovement |