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Criterion
Paper illustration of Double Diamond with its method-specific working model.
Innovation
Double Diamond
Paper illustration: scenarios and architectural decisions are connected to identified risks.
Architecture
ATAM (Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method)
Paper illustration of a decision table with criteria rows, weighted ratings, and a narrowly leading alternative.
Decision Making
Decision Matrix
Architecture Communication Canvas method illustration showing its working structure
Architecture
Architecture Communication Canvas
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.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.When several options collide with several criteria, comparison quickly becomes subjective. A Decision Matrix makes the trade-off visible and brings weighting, criteria, and options into a shared logic.The Architecture Communication Canvas plans architecture communication so the right people receive the right message. The method turns technical complexity into deliberate communication design.
Complexitydifferent
MediumHighMediumMedium
Timedifferent
Wochen bis MonateSeveral meetings plus preparation and analysis; total effort depends on scope45-90 min60-120 min
Participantsdifferent
3-12Evaluation team, architects, and relevant stakeholders2-82-8
Formatsame
Workshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Problem Statement, Solution Options, Prototypes, Deliverables per PhasePrioritized quality scenarios in a utility tree, Architecture risks with reasoning and assumptions, Sensitivity and trade-off points, Findings report with open investigationsDecision Matrix, Scoring Rationale, Selected OptionCommunication Canvas, Stakeholder Messages, Architecture Communication Plan
Tagsno overlap
ProcessDivergenceInnovation
ArchitectureQualityRiskTradeoffsStakeholders
DecisionCriteriaScoringTradeoffs
ArchitectureCommunicationStakeholdersCanvas
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