View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Facilitation Dot Estimation |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Architecture C4 Model |
|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | When size or effort can only be estimated roughly, Dot Estimation condenses the group's experience into a quick range. It turns individual contributions into a visible selection. The result is captured as an Effort Heatmap, Risk Signals, and Discussion Targets. | 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. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 5-20 min | 15-45 min | 1-4 h |
Participantsdifferent | 3-20 | 1-3 | 1-5 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Effort Heatmap, Risk Signals, Discussion Targets | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram |
Tagsno overlap | EstimationEffortRisk | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization |
Often compared together
Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.
