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| Criterion |  Innovation Double Diamond |  Architecture C4 Model |  Architecture Architecture Inception Canvas |  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. | 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. | The Architecture Inception Canvas bundles the first architecture questions into a compact decision picture. It fits when an initiative is still in motion but still needs clear guardrails. | 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 | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | Wochen bis Monate | 1-4 h | 1-2 h | 1-2 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 1-5 | 3-8 | 1-4 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Problem Statement, Solution Options, Prototypes, Deliverables per Phase | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Inception Canvas, Risks, Goal List, Open Questions | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View |
Tagsno overlap | ProcessDivergenceInnovation | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | AlignmentArchitectureCanvas | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication |