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| Criterion | ![]() Domain Modeling Context Map | ![]() UX Research Empathy Mapping | ![]() UX Research Affinity Diagramming | ![]() Domain Modeling Domain Context Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | When several contexts need to talk to each other, it makes their relationships and dependencies legible. It helps sort integration pressure and responsibilities across system boundaries. | When a lot is assumed about a target group but little is seen jointly, empathy mapping makes knowledge and gaps directly comparable. The picture also shows which assumptions hold up and where evidence is missing. | When research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. | When a domain model and its associated contexts need to be thought through together, it creates a shared overview. It connects the business view and organizational boundary into a readable whole. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 30–60 min | 45–90 min | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 4-8 | 3-10 | 3-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Context Map, Integration Patterns, Boundary Notes | Empathy Map, Assumptions List, Research Gaps | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | Domain Context Map, Boundary Notes, Ownership Map |
Tagsno overlap | Domain-Driven DesignBoundariesStrategy | SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | Domain-Driven DesignContextBoundaries |



