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| Criterion | ![]() Innovation Double Diamond | ![]() Architecture C4 Model | ![]() Architecture Software Architecture Canvas | ![]() Innovation Brainstorming |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 Software Architecture Canvas reduces a system to the most important architecture decisions, constraints, and interfaces. It is useful when teams need a resilient overall picture quickly. | When a team faces an open question with many obvious directions, the method first creates breadth instead of premature commitment. It separates idea flow from evaluation and makes lines of thought visible, creating a pool for selection and further development. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | Wochen bis Monate | 1-4 h | 1-2 h | 30-60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 1-5 | 3-10 | 4-12 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Problem Statement, Solution Options, Prototypes, Deliverables per Phase | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Architecture Canvas, Goals, Constraints, Quality Attributes | Idea pool, Theme clusters, Shortlist |
Tagsno overlap | ProcessDivergenceInnovation | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | CanvasArchitectureAlignmentWorkshop | BrainstormingIdeationCreativityWorkshopDivergence |



