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Criterion
Paper illustration for Dot Estimation.
Facilitation
Dot Estimation
Paper illustration: scenarios and architectural decisions are connected to identified risks.
Architecture
ATAM (Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method)
A 5 Whys working surface connects an observable problem with evidenced causes, marked uncertainty and concrete countermeasures with ownership.
Operations
5 Whys
Paper illustration for 8D Problem Solving.
Operations
8D Problem Solving
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.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.For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description.For an acute quality or delivery problem, the method structures immediate protection and root cause work together. It keeps the situation stable while the actual cause is investigated cleanly.
Complexitydifferent
LowHighLowHigh
Timedifferent
5-20 minSeveral meetings plus preparation and analysis; total effort depends on scope15-30 min1-6 Wochen
Participantsdifferent
3-20Evaluation team, architects, and relevant stakeholders2-64-10
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshopWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Effort Heatmap, Risk Signals, Discussion TargetsPrioritized quality scenarios in a utility tree, Architecture risks with reasoning and assumptions, Sensitivity and trade-off points, Findings report with open investigationsRoot cause notes, Countermeasures8D Report, Containment Plan, Root Cause Evidence, Corrective Action Plan
Tagsno overlap
EstimationEffortRisk
ArchitectureQualityRiskTradeoffsStakeholders
Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving
QualityProblem solvingRoot cause
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