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Criterion
Paper illustration of an IBIS map with issues, positions and arguments
Knowledge Modeling
IBIS
A paper-based illustration representing arc42 with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
arc42
Affinity Diagramming
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.arc42 structures architecture knowledge so teams can document system, decisions, and risks consistently. The template builds a living understanding of the architecture instead of scattered notes.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
MediumLowLow
Timedifferent
1-3 h1-2 Tage45–90 min
Participantsdifferent
2-81-43-10
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Issue Map, Positions, Argument NotesArchitecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment ViewTheme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas
Tagsno overlap
RationaleKnowledgeDecision
ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication
SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause
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Often compared together

Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.

Paper illustration of two considered options leading to a decision record with a marked status and visible consequences.
Architecture
Architecture Decision Record
Architecture Communication Canvas method illustration showing its working structure
Architecture
Architecture Communication Canvas
Paper illustration for Argument Mapping
Decision Making
Argument Mapping
A paper-based illustration representing C4 Model with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
C4 Model