View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Iceberg Model |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Operations Causal Factor Analysis |  Architecture arc42 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | The Iceberg Model separates visible events from patterns, structures, and mental models. This turns a single observation into a deeper understanding of why a problem keeps recurring. | 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 an event with a complicated course, the method breaks down the contributing factors along the timeline. It shows how conditions, decisions, and reactions together produce a course of events. | 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 | Low | Low | High | Low |
Timedifferent | 30-60 min | 15-45 min | 2-6 h | 1-2 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 2-10 | 1-3 | 3-10 | 1-4 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Iceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention Ideas | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Event Timeline, Causal Factor Chart, Cause List, Corrective Actions | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | CausalityIncidentRoot causeTimeline | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication |