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| Criterion |  Innovation Double Diamond |  Architecture arc42 |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | For a complex deviation with several people involved, the method bundles problem, analysis, and decision onto one page. It creates a shared working space where causes, countermeasures, and follow-up fit together. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | Wochen bis Monate | 1-2 Tage | 45-90 min | 15-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 1-4 | 2-5 | 1-3 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Async |
Outputdifferent | Problem Statement, Solution Options, Prototypes, Deliverables per Phase | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale |
Tagsno overlap | ProcessDivergenceInnovation | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance |