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| Criterion |  Architecture C4 Model |  Business Strategy Value Chain Analysis |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Business Strategy VRIO Framework |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | Value Chain Analysis shows where value is created, costs accrue, and differentiation becomes possible along the process. It compares strengths, risks, market logic, and courses of action. The result is captured as a value-chain map and lever list. | 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. | The VRIO Framework rates resources and capabilities on whether they are Valuable, Rare, Inimitable, and Organized. It compares strengths, risks, market logic, and courses of action. The result is captured as a VRIO table and strategic actions. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | High | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-4 h | Half day | 15-45 min | 90-180 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | 3-8 | 1-3 | 3-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Value Chain Map, Lever List | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | VRIO Table, Strategic Actions |
Tagsno overlap | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | StrategyBusiness modelDiagnosisAnalysis | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | StrategyDiagnosisBusiness modelCapability |