View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion | ![]() Operations ALPEN Method | ![]() Architecture arc42 | ![]() Architecture Architecture Decision Record | ![]() Operations Getting Things Done |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | arc42 structures architecture knowledge so teams can document system, decisions, and risks consistently. The template builds a living understanding of the architecture instead of scattered notes. | 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. | With many open commitments and ideas in daily life, a reliable external storage system emerges. The method relieves the mind so priority and context don't have to compete in memory. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 10-20 min daily | 1-2 Tage | 15-45 min | 1-2 h Setup, laufend |
Participantsdifferent | 1 | 1-4 | 1-3 | 1 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop + async | Async | Async |
Outputdifferent | Daily Plan, Time Estimates, Review Notes | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Action Lists, Project List, Review Routine |
Tagsno overlap | PlanningTime managementProductivityOperations | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ProductivityPlanningTasksExecution |



