View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion | ![]() Operations Getting Things Done | ![]() Architecture Architecture Decision Record | ![]() Architecture C4 Model | ![]() Operations ALPEN Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | With many open commitments and ideas in daily life, a reliable external storage system emerges. The method relieves the mind so priority and context don't have to compete in memory. | 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. | 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. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h Setup, laufend | 15-45 min | 1-4 h | 10-20 min daily |
Participantsdifferent | 1 | 1-3 | 1-5 | 1 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Async | Workshop + async | Async |
Outputdifferent | Action Lists, Project List, Review Routine | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Daily Plan, Time Estimates, Review Notes |
Tagsno overlap | ProductivityPlanningTasksExecution | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | PlanningTime managementProductivityOperations |



