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| Criterion |  Architecture C4 Model |  Innovation Brainwriting |  Innovation Crazy 8s |  Architecture arc42 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | When loud voices or hierarchy distort the idea search, the method creates a quiet entry into joint development. It gives everyone thinking space and gathers contributions without social brakes, making diversity more visible and easier to build on. | With only a few minutes available and a still-fuzzy solution search, the method forces a wide range of variants. It produces fast sketches before the first idea can settle in, making different directions directly comparable and open to further development. | 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. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | 15-30 min | 8-15 min | 1-2 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | 3-12 | 1-10 | 1-4 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Idea sheets, Expanded concepts, Prioritized list | Sketch Set, Idea Shortlist, Direction Options | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | BrainstormingCollaborationInclusionIdeas | BrainstormingSketchingSpeedDivergenceDesign sprint | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication |