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| Criterion | ![]() Knowledge Modeling IBIS | ![]() Architecture Architecture Decision Record | ![]() Operations A3 Problem Solving | ![]() Operations Kepner-Tregoe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | 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. | For a complex deviation with several people involved, the method bundles problem, analysis, and decision onto one page. It creates a shared working space where causes, countermeasures, and follow-up fit together. | For a disturbance that's hard to pin down, the method cleanly separates problem, cause, and decision. It reduces mixing when symptoms allow several interpretations. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 15-45 min | 45-90 min | 2-8 h |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 1-3 | 2-5 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Issue Map, Positions, Argument Notes | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | Problem Analysis, Decision Analysis, Risk Plan |
Tagsno overlap | RationaleKnowledgeDecision | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | Problem solvingRoot causeDecisionOperations |



