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| Criterion | ![]() Architecture Architecture Inception Canvas | ![]() Architecture C4 Model | ![]() Facilitation Expectation Mapping |
|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | 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. | 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 roles, interfaces, or projects fail because of differing expectations, Expectation Mapping surfaces these differences. It shows what each side takes for granted and where the pictures diverge. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 1-4 h | 45-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-8 | 1-5 | 3-12 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Inception Canvas, Risks, Goal List, Open Questions | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Expectation Map, Alignment Notes, Agreements |
Tagsno overlap | AlignmentArchitectureCanvas | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | AlignmentStakeholdersTeam |
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