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| Criterion |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Architecture C4 Model |  Product Strategy OKRs |  Product Strategy SMART Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | When strategic direction needs to become measurable, it connects ambition with checkable results. It makes goals connectable to focus and review. | When goals are formulated too generally, it brings measurability, direction, and timing into shape. It prevents intentions from staying without clear verification. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 15-45 min | 1-4 h | 1-2 h Setup | 15-30 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-3 | 1-5 | 2-20 | 1-8 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | OKR set, Measurement plan, Review cadence | SMART Goal, Measurement Note, Deadline |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | GoalsAlignmentOutcomesMeasurement | GoalsPlanningMeasurementAlignment |