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| Criterion | ![]() Architecture Architecture Decision Record | ![]() Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping | ![]() Innovation Brainwriting | ![]() Facilitation Mind 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. | Concept Mapping arranges terms and relationships in a network that makes subject-matter connections tangible. It fits when a topic needs to be understood structurally rather than linearly. | When loud voices or hierarchy distort the idea search, the method creates a quiet entry into joint development. It gives everyone thinking space and gathers contributions without social brakes, making diversity more visible and easier to build on. | When a topic is still unclear and too many thoughts surface at once, Mind Mapping creates an open surface for ordering them. It makes connections, subtopics, and starting points visible without fixing them too early. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 15-45 min | 1-2 h | 15-30 min | 15-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-3 | 1-8 | 3-12 | 1-10 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps | Idea sheets, Expanded concepts, Prioritized list | Mind Map, Topic Clusters, Open Questions |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking | BrainstormingCollaborationInclusionIdeas | BrainstormingIdeasMappingStructureFacilitation |



