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| Criterion |  Architecture C4 Model |  UX Research Card Sorting |  Decision Making DACI |
|---|---|---|---|
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 content only makes sense internally and users can't find the structure again, card sorting exposes their mental order. Terms, groups, and naming are then aligned with the target group's expectations. | In cross-functional decisions, responsibilities quickly blur between approval, influence, and execution. DACI arranges these roles so decision pressure, contribution, and information stay cleanly separated. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | 20-45 min | 30-60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | Based on research question | 2-10 |
Formatsame | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Content groups, Label set, IA hypotheses | DACI Matrix, Decision Owner, Decision Log |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | Information architectureNavigationStructure | DecisionRolesGovernanceAlignment |
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