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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking CATWOE Analysis |  Systems Thinking Soft Systems Methodology |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | Soft Systems Methodology helps explore unclear or politically charged problems systematically. Instead of forcing a quick answer, the method builds a shared understanding of perspectives and room for action. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | High | Low |
Timedifferent | 45-90 min | 0.5-3 Tage | 15-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-8 | 5-15 | 1-3 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Async |
Outputdifferent | CATWOE Canvas, Root Definition, Stakeholder Perspectives, Constraints | Rich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change Agenda | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingFramingStakeholders | Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance |
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