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| Criterion |  Decision Making Decision Tree |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Architecture Software Architecture Canvas |  Decision Making DACI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 Software Architecture Canvas reduces a system to the most important architecture decisions, constraints, and interfaces. It is useful when teams need a resilient overall picture quickly. | In cross-functional decisions, responsibilities quickly blur between approval, influence, and execution. DACI arranges these roles so decision pressure, contribution, and information stay cleanly separated. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 30-90 min | 15-45 min | 1-2 h | 30-60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-6 | 1-3 | 3-10 | 2-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Decision Tree, Option Map, Assumption List | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Architecture Canvas, Goals, Constraints, Quality Attributes | DACI Matrix, Decision Owner, Decision Log |
Tagsno overlap | DecisionTreeOptions | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | CanvasArchitectureAlignmentWorkshop | DecisionRolesGovernanceAlignment |