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Criterion
A paper-based illustration representing arc42 with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
arc42
A paper-based illustration representing C4 Model with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
C4 Model
A hypothetical failure makes concrete risks, signals, and fitting mitigations visible.
Decision Making
Pre-Mortem
Purposedifferent
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.The C4 Model makes a system legible across several resolution levels, from context down to code. It suits situations where different audiences need to understand the same architecture from different altitudes.In early initiatives with many uncertainties, planning quickly turns too optimistic. A pre-mortem makes the expected failure visible in advance and sharpens the view of causes, gaps, and countermeasures.
Complexitysame
LowLowLow
Timedifferent
1-2 Tage1-4 h20–45 min
Participantsdifferent
1-41-5Small cross-functional group
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment ViewContext Diagram, Container Diagram, Component DiagramRisk list, Mitigation plan, Assumption log
Tagsno overlap
ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication
ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization
RiskDecisionFailurePlanning
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Architecture Communication Canvas method illustration showing its working structure
Architecture
Architecture Communication Canvas
Paper illustration of two considered options leading to a decision record with a marked status and visible consequences.
Architecture
Architecture Decision Record
Paper illustration of an assumption matrix with prioritized test cards
Decision Making
Assumption Surfacing
Paper illustration for Communication Plan
Delivery
Communication Plan