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Criterion
Paper illustration of Futures Wheel with its method-specific working model.
Systems Thinking
Futures Wheel
Paper illustration of an IBIS map with issues, positions and arguments
Knowledge Modeling
IBIS
A paper-based illustration representing C4 Model with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
C4 Model
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.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.
Complexitydifferent
MediumMediumLow
Timedifferent
60-120 min1-3 h1-4 h
Participantsdifferent
3-102-81-5
Formatsame
Workshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Futures Wheel, Consequence Chains, Strategic SignalsIssue Map, Positions, Argument NotesContext Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram
Tagsno overlap
ForesightSystems thinkingSignals
RationaleKnowledgeDecision
ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization
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Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.

Architecture Communication Canvas method illustration showing its working structure
Architecture
Architecture Communication Canvas
Paper illustration of two considered options leading to a decision record with a marked status and visible consequences.
Architecture
Architecture Decision Record
Paper illustration for Argument Mapping
Decision Making
Argument Mapping