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Criterion
A paper-based illustration representing C4 Model with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
C4 Model
Empathy Mapping
UX Research
Empathy Mapping
Paper illustration of two user profile cards with a goal, behavior evidence, and an open research question.
UX Research
Personas
A paper-based illustration representing arc42 with its core stages and visible working result.
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 a lot is assumed about a target group but little is seen jointly, empathy mapping makes knowledge and gaps directly comparable. The picture also shows which assumptions hold up and where evidence is missing.When target groups stay too vague and teams talk about the same people differently, personas create a shared, solid picture of usage. Condensed profiles make needs, contexts, and differences tangible enough for decisions.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.
Complexitydifferent
LowLowMediumLow
Timedifferent
1-4 h30–60 min1-3 Tage1-2 Tage
Participantsdifferent
1-54-8Internes Team1-4
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncWorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component DiagramEmpathy Map, Assumptions List, Research GapsPersona Profiles, Needs Summary, Scenario NotesArchitecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View
Tagsno overlap
ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization
SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop
ResearchCustomerSynthesis
ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication
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