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Criterion
Paper illustration of Futures Wheel with its method-specific working model.
Systems Thinking
Futures Wheel
A paper-based illustration representing arc42 with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
arc42
Paper illustration for ALPEN Method
Operations
ALPEN Method
Paper illustration of two considered options leading to a decision record with a marked status and visible consequences.
Architecture
Architecture Decision Record
Purposedifferent
The Futures Wheel helps explore the consequences of a decision, a trend, or a strategic move in a structured way. It makes visible which first, second, and third-order effects could arise from an event.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.With an overloaded day full of too many tasks, a realistic picture of the day emerges. The method connects estimating, deciding, and buffer thinking so planning fits available energy and time.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.
Complexitydifferent
MediumLowLowLow
Timedifferent
60-120 min1-2 Tage10-20 min daily15-45 min
Participantsdifferent
3-101-411-3
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncAsyncAsync
Outputdifferent
Futures Wheel, Consequence Chains, Strategic SignalsArchitecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment ViewDaily Plan, Time Estimates, Review NotesADR File, Decision Log, Rationale
Tagsno overlap
ForesightSystems thinkingSignals
ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication
PlanningTime managementProductivityOperations
ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance
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