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| Criterion |  Innovation Double Diamond |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Operations Causal Factor Analysis |  Architecture arc42 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For complex problems with a fuzzy situation, the method cleanly separates search space and decision. It first creates breadth in understanding and then focus in elaboration. This brings open questions, problem definition, and solution path into a traceable movement. | 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. | For an event with a complicated course, the method breaks down the contributing factors along the timeline. It shows how conditions, decisions, and reactions together produce a course of events. | arc42 structures architecture knowledge so teams can document system, decisions, and risks consistently. The template builds a living understanding of the architecture instead of scattered notes. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | High | Low |
Timedifferent | Wochen bis Monate | 15-45 min | 2-6 h | 1-2 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 1-3 | 3-10 | 1-4 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Problem Statement, Solution Options, Prototypes, Deliverables per Phase | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Event Timeline, Causal Factor Chart, Cause List, Corrective Actions | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View |
Tagsno overlap | ProcessDivergenceInnovation | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | CausalityIncidentRoot causeTimeline | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication |