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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Future Reality Tree |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Decision Making Force Field Analysis |  Architecture arc42 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | A Future Reality Tree shows how desired actions are meant to lead to a better system state. The method checks whether a path of change holds together logically before time flows into implementation. | 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. | In change initiatives, supporting and restraining forces sit at the table at the same time. Force Field Analysis makes these tensions explicit and shows where change can be pushed forward by strengthening or relieving. | 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 | High | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 2-4 h | 15-45 min | 45-90 min | 1-2 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 3-8 | 1-3 | 3-12 | 1-4 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Future Reality Tree, Negative Branches, Assumption List, Improved Injections | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Force Field Map, Change Levers, Risk Notes | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View |
Tagsno overlap | Theory of ConstraintsSystems thinkingChange | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ChangeDecisionStrategy | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication |