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| Criterion |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Operations Runbook |  Operations 5 Whys |
|---|---|---|---|
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 recurring operational tasks or incidents, the method keeps solid action logic ready. It reduces uncertainty when time pressure, role changes, or rare situations demand fast access. | For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 15-45 min | 20-60 min | 15-30 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-3 | 1-4 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Runbook, Checklist, Escalation Path | Root cause notes, Countermeasures |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | OperationsReliabilityDocumentation | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving |
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