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Selected:C4 ModelStandard Work AnalysisArchitecture Decision RecordATAM (Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method)
| Criterion |  Architecture C4 Model |  Operations Standard Work Analysis |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Architecture ATAM (Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 the same task is done differently depending on the person, the method exposes the reliable core. It creates comparability without unnecessarily choking off needed latitude. | 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. | ATAM helps teams weigh architecture decisions when quality goals compete. The team considers business goals, stakeholder expectations, and technical decisions together. The evaluation shows which risks need further investigation. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Low | High |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | 1-3 h | 15-45 min | Several meetings plus preparation and analysis; total effort depends on scope |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | 2-6 | 1-3 | Evaluation team, architects, and relevant stakeholders |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Standard Work Sheet, Deviation List, Improved Standard, Training Needs | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Prioritized quality scenarios in a utility tree, Architecture risks with reasoning and assumptions, Sensitivity and trade-off points, Findings report with open investigations |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | LeanProcessQuality | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ArchitectureQualityRiskTradeoffsStakeholders |