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| Criterion |  UX Research Empathy Mapping |  Architecture C4 Model |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |
|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | When a lot is assumed about a target group but little is seen jointly, empathy mapping makes knowledge and gaps directly comparable. The picture also shows which assumptions hold up and where evidence is missing. | 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. |
Complexitysame | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 30–60 min | 1-4 h | 15-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 4-8 | 1-5 | 1-3 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Async |
Outputdifferent | Empathy Map, Assumptions List, Research Gaps | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale |
Tagsno overlap | SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance |
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