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Criterion
A paper-based illustration representing C4 Model with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
C4 Model
Paper illustration of two considered options leading to a decision record with a marked status and visible consequences.
Architecture
Architecture Decision Record
Paper illustration of Rapid Ideation with its method-specific working model.
Innovation
Rapid Ideation
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 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
LowLowLow
Timedifferent
1-4 h15-45 min5-20 min
Participantsdifferent
1-51-31-20
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncAsyncWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component DiagramADR File, Decision Log, RationaleIdeenpool, Roh-Shortlist, Cluster
Tagsno overlap
ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization
ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance
BrainstormingIdeationDivergenceSpeed
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Often compared together

Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.

A paper-based illustration representing Brainstorming with its core stages and visible working result.
Innovation
Brainstorming
Paper illustration of the Lotus Blossom working structure.
Innovation
Lotus Blossom