View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion | ![]() Knowledge Modeling IBIS | ![]() Decision Making Impact Filter | ![]() Architecture Architecture Decision Record | ![]() Architecture arc42 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | With new ideas or requests, the conversation often turns to solutions too early and to effect too little. An Impact Filter forces the initiative into an effect perspective and checks whether it creates a relevant difference. | 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. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 20-45 min | 15-45 min | 1-2 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 1-6 | 1-3 | 1-4 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Issue Map, Positions, Argument Notes | Impact Filter, Success Criteria, Next Step | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View |
Tagsno overlap | RationaleKnowledgeDecision | ImpactOutcomesFramingDecision | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication |



