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| Criterion |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  UX Research Empathy Mapping |  Product Discovery MVP Test Matrix |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | When a lot is assumed about a target group but little is seen jointly, empathy mapping makes knowledge and gaps directly comparable. The picture also shows which assumptions hold up and where evidence is missing. | When several minimal variants compete to answer the same question, it makes comparing and choosing between them cleaner. It separates problem, assumption, solution, and evidence. The result is captured as a Test Matrix and a Test Plan. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 15-45 min | 30–60 min | 45-75 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-3 | 4-8 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Empathy Map, Assumptions List, Research Gaps | Test Matrix, Test Plan |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop | ExperimentsValidationDiscoveryOptions |
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