View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Architecture C4 Model |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Business Strategy SWOT 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. | SWOT Analysis arranges strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats into a compact picture of the situation. It keeps internal capabilities and external influences separate before strategic options emerge from them. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | 15-45 min | 30-60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | 1-3 | 3-12 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | SWOT matrix, Strategic options, Action list |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | StrategyAnalysisMarketPositioning |
Often compared together
Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.
