View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Systems Thinking CATWOE Analysis |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Architecture C4 Model |  Systems Thinking Rich Picture |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | CATWOE structures a problem from six viewpoints and prevents too narrow a view of the situation. Different experiences of the system become comparably discussable this way. | 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 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 Rich Picture brings an unclear situation onto a shared drawing. It captures actors, tensions, information flows, and blind spots before the team jumps to solutions too early. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 45-90 min | 15-45 min | 1-4 h | 30-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-8 | 1-3 | 1-5 | 2-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | CATWOE Canvas, Root Definition, Stakeholder Perspectives, Constraints | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Rich Picture, Problem Framing Notes |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingFramingStakeholders | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | Systems thinkingSoft systemsFramingVisualization |