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| Criterion |  Decision Making Decision Tree |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Architecture C4 Model |
|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For decisions with follow-on paths and dependencies, a linear comparison is often not enough. A Decision Tree shows how options branch under conditions and which consequences hang on each branch. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 30-90 min | 15-45 min | 1-4 h |
Participantsdifferent | 1-6 | 1-3 | 1-5 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Decision Tree, Option Map, Assumption List | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram |
Tagsno overlap | DecisionTreeOptions | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization |
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