View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
Selected:Architecture Decision RecordCurrent Reality TreeCausal Loop DiagramBehavior Over Time Graph
| Criterion |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Systems Thinking Current Reality Tree |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Systems Thinking Behavior Over Time Graph |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | A Current Reality Tree condenses many symptoms into a few causal chains. The method makes visible which core problems drive several negative effects at once. | A Causal Loop Diagram makes feedback, reinforcement, and balance in a system legible. It uncovers side effects and self-reinforcement that stay hidden in linear explanations. | A Behavior Over Time Graph shows how a metric or observation develops over time. The method makes trends, breaks, and recurring patterns visible that get lost in snapshots. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | High | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 15-45 min | 2-6 h | 1-3 h | 20-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-3 | 3-8 | 2-8 | 1-10 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Current Reality Tree, Core Problems, Intervention Ideas | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Behavior Over Time Graph, Trend Hypotheses, Key Events |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | Systems thinkingRoot causeConstraintsCausality | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | Systems thinkingPatternsDynamics |