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| Criterion |  Architecture C4 Model |  Architecture arc42 |  Innovation Lean Startup |  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. | For uncertain business assumptions, the method forces the idea into contact with real market reactions early. It separates wishful picture, assumption, and observable behavior, so that learning becomes faster than planning. This translates uncertainty into measurable insight. | 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 | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | 1-2 Tage | Wochen bis Monate je Lernzyklus | 15-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | 1-4 | 2-8 | 1-3 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Async |
Outputdifferent | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View | Hypothesis list, MVPs, Learning reports, Pivot or persevere decision | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication | LeanStartupValidationMVP | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance |