methodatlas
Compare

View methods side by side.

Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.

Criterion
A paper-based illustration representing arc42 with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
arc42
Paper illustration of an eight-panel idea sheet with varied sketches beside a timer set to eight minutes.
Innovation
Crazy 8s
A paper-based illustration representing C4 Model with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
C4 Model
Paper illustration of Rapid Ideation with its method-specific working model.
Innovation
Rapid Ideation
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.With only a few minutes available and a still-fuzzy solution search, the method forces a wide range of variants. It produces fast sketches before the first idea can settle in, making different directions directly comparable and open to further development.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.When a decision needs to be prepared quickly, the method generates many solution-close variants in a short time. It deliberately relies on pace to undercut self-censorship and perfectionism. This quickly produces a usable field for prioritization and further work.
Complexitysame
LowLowLowLow
Timedifferent
1-2 Tage8-15 min1-4 h5-20 min
Participantsdifferent
1-41-101-51-20
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncWorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment ViewSketch Set, Idea Shortlist, Direction OptionsContext Diagram, Container Diagram, Component DiagramIdeenpool, Roh-Shortlist, Cluster
Tagsno overlap
ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication
BrainstormingSketchingSpeedDivergenceDesign sprint
ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization
BrainstormingIdeationDivergenceSpeed
Add more methods