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| Criterion |  Architecture C4 Model |  Operations ALPEN Method |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Architecture Architecture Communication Canvas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | With an overloaded day full of too many tasks, a realistic picture of the day emerges. The method connects estimating, deciding, and buffer thinking so planning fits available energy and time. | 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. | The Architecture Communication Canvas plans architecture communication so the right people receive the right message. The method turns technical complexity into deliberate communication design. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | 10-20 min daily | 15-45 min | 60-120 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | 1 | 1-3 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Daily Plan, Time Estimates, Review Notes | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Communication Canvas, Stakeholder Messages, Architecture Communication Plan |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | PlanningTime managementProductivityOperations | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ArchitectureCommunicationStakeholdersCanvas |