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| Criterion |  Knowledge Modeling IBIS |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | When research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 15-45 min | 45–90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 1-3 | 3-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Issue Map, Positions, Argument Notes | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas |
Tagsno overlap | RationaleKnowledgeDecision | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause |
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