View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Architecture C4 Model |  Operations Time Blocking |  Architecture arc42 |  Operations ALPEN 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. | With a calendar that grows on request, the method makes available time explicit again. It combines appointments, focus work, and buffer into a more realistic day structure. | 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. | With an overloaded day full of too many tasks, a realistic picture of the day emerges. The method connects estimating, deciding, and buffer thinking so planning fits available energy and time. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | 15-30 min Planung, laufend | 1-2 Tage | 10-20 min daily |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | 1 | 1-4 | 1 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async | Async |
Outputdifferent | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Blocked Calendar, Capacity View, Focus Plan | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View | Daily Plan, Time Estimates, Review Notes |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | PlanningTime managementFocus | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication | PlanningTime managementProductivityOperations |