View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion | ![]() Architecture Architecture Decision Record | ![]() Architecture Software Architecture Canvas |
|---|---|---|
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. | The Software Architecture Canvas reduces a system to the most important architecture decisions, constraints, and interfaces. It is useful when teams need a resilient overall picture quickly. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 15-45 min | 1-2 h |
Participantsdifferent | 1-3 | 3-10 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Architecture Canvas, Goals, Constraints, Quality Attributes |
Tags1 shared | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | CanvasArchitectureAlignmentWorkshop |
Often compared together
Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.





