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| Criterion |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Architecture Architecture Inception Canvas |  Decision Making DACI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | When research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. | 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 Architecture Inception Canvas bundles the first architecture questions into a compact decision picture. It fits when an initiative is still in motion but still needs clear guardrails. | In cross-functional decisions, responsibilities quickly blur between approval, influence, and execution. DACI arranges these roles so decision pressure, contribution, and information stay cleanly separated. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 45–90 min | 15-45 min | 1-2 h | 30-60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-10 | 1-3 | 3-8 | 2-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Inception Canvas, Risks, Goal List, Open Questions | DACI Matrix, Decision Owner, Decision Log |
Tagsno overlap | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | AlignmentArchitectureCanvas | DecisionRolesGovernanceAlignment |