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Selected:Decision MatrixEmpathy MappingATAM (Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method)Affinity Diagramming
| Criterion |  Decision Making Decision Matrix |  UX Research Empathy Mapping |  Architecture ATAM (Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method) |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | When several options collide with several criteria, comparison quickly becomes subjective. A Decision Matrix makes the trade-off visible and brings weighting, criteria, and options into a shared logic. | 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. | ATAM helps teams weigh architecture decisions when quality goals compete. The team considers business goals, stakeholder expectations, and technical decisions together. The evaluation shows which risks need further investigation. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | High | Low |
Timedifferent | 45-90 min | 30–60 min | Several meetings plus preparation and analysis; total effort depends on scope | 45–90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 4-8 | Evaluation team, architects, and relevant stakeholders | 3-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Decision Matrix, Scoring Rationale, Selected Option | Empathy Map, Assumptions List, Research Gaps | Prioritized quality scenarios in a utility tree, Architecture risks with reasoning and assumptions, Sensitivity and trade-off points, Findings report with open investigations | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas |
Tagsno overlap | DecisionCriteriaScoringTradeoffs | SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop | ArchitectureQualityRiskTradeoffsStakeholders | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause |