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| Criterion |  Facilitation Dot Estimation |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Architecture C4 Model |  Decision Making PERT Estimation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | On complex initiatives, a plain average tends to understate just how uncertain the outcome really is. It separates options, evaluation criteria, and open risks. The result is captured as a PERT Estimate, Expected Value, and Risk Notes. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 5-20 min | 15-45 min | 1-4 h | 15-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-20 | 1-3 | 1-5 | 1-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Effort Heatmap, Risk Signals, Discussion Targets | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | PERT Estimate, Expected Value, Risk Notes |
Tagsno overlap | EstimationEffortRisk | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | EstimationUncertaintyRisk |