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| Criterion | ![]() Architecture C4 Model | ![]() Architecture Architecture Decision Record | ![]() Facilitation 3-Circle Venn Diagram |
|---|---|---|---|
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 three perspectives matter at the same time, a Three-Circle Venn Diagram shows the overlaps and remainders precisely. It makes visible where shared effect arises and where only a partial perspective applies. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | 15-45 min | 15-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | 1-3 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Venn Diagram, Overlap Notes, Differentiators |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ComparisonFacilitationAlignment |
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