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| Criterion |  Architecture C4 Model |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Product Strategy Counter Metrics |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | When a headline metric could mask side effects, it adds guardrail signals against unwanted outcomes. It connects customer value, product logic, and decision priorities. The result is captured as a counter-metric list and guardrail definitions. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | 15-45 min | 30-60 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 | Counter Metric List, Guardrail Definitions |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | MetricsMeasurementStrategyExperiments |
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