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| Criterion | ![]() Operations ALPEN Method | ![]() Architecture Architecture Decision Record | ![]() Product Discovery MVP Test Matrix | ![]() Product Discovery Riskiest Assumption Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | 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. | 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 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. | When an idea hinges on one critical unknown, it prioritizes testing that exact piece of uncertainty first. It separates problem, assumption, solution, and evidence. The result is captured as a prioritized list of assumptions, a test plan, and a result report. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 10-20 min daily | 15-45 min | 45-75 min | 1-2 Wochen pro Iteration |
Participantsdifferent | 1 | 1-3 | 2-8 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Daily Plan, Time Estimates, Review Notes | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Test Matrix, Test Plan | Prioritized Assumption List, Test Plan, Results Report |
Tagsno overlap | PlanningTime managementProductivityOperations | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ExperimentsValidationDiscoveryOptions | ExperimentsValidationDiscoveryAssumptions |



