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| Criterion | ![]() Innovation Double Diamond | ![]() Architecture C4 Model | ![]() Architecture Architecture Decision Record | ![]() Architecture Views and Beyond |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | Views and Beyond organizes architecture into several views so no single diagram has to do everything at once. This makes it possible to choose the representation that fits the stakeholder's question. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | Wochen bis Monate | 1-4 h | 15-45 min | 1-3 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 1-5 | 1-3 | 1-4 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Problem Statement, Solution Options, Prototypes, Deliverables per Phase | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Architecture Views, Cross-view Notes, Rationale |
Tagsno overlap | ProcessDivergenceInnovation | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | DocumentationStakeholdersArchitecture |



