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 Family Tree 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 a series of incidents with a similar pattern, the method arranges individual events as branches of a common origin. It makes visible which conditions keep recurring. | 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 | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 30-60 min | 15-45 min | 2-4 h | 1-2 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 2-10 | 1-3 | 2-6 | 1-4 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Iceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention Ideas | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Family Tree Diagram, Pattern Notes, Systemic Measures | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | Root causePatternsIncidentSystemic | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication |