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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Behavior Over Time Graph |  Architecture C4 Model |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |
|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | A Behavior Over Time Graph shows how a metric or observation develops over time. The method makes trends, breaks, and recurring patterns visible that get lost in snapshots. | 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. | 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. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 20-45 min | 1-4 h | 15-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-10 | 1-5 | 1-3 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Async |
Outputdifferent | Behavior Over Time Graph, Trend Hypotheses, Key Events | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingPatternsDynamics | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance |
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