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| Criterion | ![]() Facilitation Dot Estimation | ![]() Architecture C4 Model | ![]() Architecture Architecture Decision Record |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | 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. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 5-20 min | 1-4 h | 15-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-20 | 1-5 | 1-3 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Async |
Outputdifferent | Effort Heatmap, Risk Signals, Discussion Targets | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale |
Tagsno overlap | EstimationEffortRisk | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance |
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