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| Criterion |  Architecture C4 Model |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Operations Change Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | 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. | For a deviation after a change, the method isolates the influence of the altered condition. It narrows down which differences are relevant and which are just accompanying noise. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | 15-45 min | 45-120 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | 1-3 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Change Matrix, Cause Hypotheses, Validation Questions, Action List |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ChangeRoot causeTroubleshootingComparison |
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