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| Criterion |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Operations Kaizen Event |  Operations ALPEN Method |  Operations Gemba Walk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | For a tightly scoped process segment with noticeable waste, the method bundles shared energy for change. It suits situations that call for fast learning loops and visible adjustments. | With an overloaded day full of too many tasks, a realistic picture of the day emerges. The method connects estimating, deciding, and buffer thinking so planning fits available energy and time. | When there is uncertainty about the real course of a process, the method brings observation to the place where work happens. It combines perception, follow-up questions, and process knowledge so decisions rest on actual workflows instead of assumptions. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 15-45 min | 0.5-5 Tage | 10-20 min daily | 30-120 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-3 | 4-10 | 1 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop | Async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Kaizen Charter, Waste List, Improvement Experiments, Standard Work Update | Daily Plan, Time Estimates, Review Notes | Observation Notes, Improvement Ideas |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | LeanContinuous improvementOperations | PlanningTime managementProductivityOperations | LeanObservationProcessOperations |