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| Criterion | ![]() Systems Thinking Futures Wheel | ![]() Knowledge Modeling IBIS | ![]() Architecture Architecture Decision Record | ![]() Decision Making DACI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | IBIS structures thinking about complex questions as a sequence of issues, ideas, and arguments. The method keeps discussions open without forcing them into premature consensus. | 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 cross-functional decisions, responsibilities quickly blur between approval, influence, and execution. DACI arranges these roles so decision pressure, contribution, and information stay cleanly separated. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 60-120 min | 1-3 h | 15-45 min | 30-60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-10 | 2-8 | 1-3 | 2-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Futures Wheel, Consequence Chains, Strategic Signals | Issue Map, Positions, Argument Notes | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | DACI Matrix, Decision Owner, Decision Log |
Tagsno overlap | ForesightSystems thinkingSignals | RationaleKnowledgeDecision | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | DecisionRolesGovernanceAlignment |



