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| Criterion |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Architecture C4 Model |  Innovation Lean Startup |  Architecture Architecture Communication Canvas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | For uncertain business assumptions, the method forces the idea into contact with real market reactions early. It separates wishful picture, assumption, and observable behavior, so that learning becomes faster than planning. This translates uncertainty into measurable insight. | The Architecture Communication Canvas plans architecture communication so the right people receive the right message. The method turns technical complexity into deliberate communication design. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 15-45 min | 1-4 h | Wochen bis Monate je Lernzyklus | 60-120 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-3 | 1-5 | 2-8 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Hypothesis list, MVPs, Learning reports, Pivot or persevere decision | Communication Canvas, Stakeholder Messages, Architecture Communication Plan |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | LeanStartupValidationMVP | ArchitectureCommunicationStakeholdersCanvas |