methodatlas
Compare

View methods side by side.

Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.

Criterion
Gap Analysis method illustration showing its working structure
Business Strategy
GAP Analysis
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 DACI
Decision Making
DACI
Paper illustration for Alignment Mapping.
Facilitation
Alignment Mapping
Purposedifferent
GAP Analysis compares the current state with a target picture and makes the distance manageable. It becomes useful when, ahead of new initiatives, it must become clear which capabilities, processes, or resources are missing.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.When several people work toward one goal but hold different mental maps, Alignment Mapping makes the discrepancies visible. It arranges goals, assumptions, and priorities so shared direction becomes verifiable.
Complexitydifferent
MediumLowLowMedium
Timedifferent
1-3 h15-45 min30-60 min1-2 h
Participantsdifferent
2-81-32-104-12
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncAsyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Gap Matrix, Action Plan, Risk NotesADR File, Decision Log, RationaleDACI Matrix, Decision Owner, Decision LogAlignment Map, Open Issues, Decision Questions
Tagsno overlap
StrategyAnalysisPlanning
ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance
DecisionRolesGovernanceAlignment
AlignmentStakeholdersStrategyFacilitation
Add more methods