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| Criterion | ![]() Architecture C4 Model | ![]() Operations ALPEN Method | ![]() Architecture arc42 | ![]() Delivery Communication Plan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | arc42 structures architecture knowledge so teams can document system, decisions, and risks consistently. The template builds a living understanding of the architecture instead of scattered notes. | When many people need to be informed in parallel and messages would otherwise arrive unevenly or too late, a Communication Plan orders communication reliably. Channels, audiences, and cadences interlock so important information doesn't get lost. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | 10-20 min daily | 1-2 Tage | 45-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | 1 | 1-4 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Daily Plan, Time Estimates, Review Notes | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View | Communication Plan, Channel Matrix, Message Cadence |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | PlanningTime managementProductivityOperations | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication | CommunicationStakeholdersDeliveryPlanning |



