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| Criterion |  Architecture C4 Model |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Systems Thinking Stock and Flow Diagram |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | A Causal Loop Diagram makes feedback, reinforcement, and balance in a system legible. It uncovers side effects and self-reinforcement that stay hidden in linear explanations. | 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. | A Stock and Flow Diagram shows how stocks, inflows, and outflows shape a system over time. It is especially suited when growth, delays, or capacity limits determine the dynamics. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Low | High |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | 1-3 h | 15-45 min | 2-6 h |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | 2-8 | 1-3 | 1-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Stock and Flow Model, Dynamics Notes, Simulation Hypotheses |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | DynamicsSimulationFeedbackSystems thinking |