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 arc42 |  Systems Thinking Future Reality Tree |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | A Future Reality Tree shows how desired actions are meant to lead to a better system state. The method checks whether a path of change holds together logically before time flows into implementation. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | High | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | 1-2 Tage | 2-4 h | 15-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | 1-4 | 3-8 | 1-3 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop | Async |
Outputdifferent | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View | Future Reality Tree, Negative Branches, Assumption List, Improved Injections | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication | Theory of ConstraintsSystems thinkingChange | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance |