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| Criterion | ![]() Knowledge Modeling Knowledge Mapping | ![]() Systems Thinking Systems Mapping | ![]() Architecture Architecture Decision Record | ![]() Knowledge Modeling Concept Mapping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | Knowledge Mapping makes knowledge, gaps, and transfer paths visible across a field. It fits when expertise should not just exist but also be findable and transferable. | Systems Mapping arranges elements, relationships, and boundaries so a complex field becomes legible at a glance. The overview stabilizes the overall picture before detail work or steering begins. | 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. | Concept Mapping arranges terms and relationships in a network that makes subject-matter connections tangible. It fits when a topic needs to be understood structurally rather than linearly. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 1-3 h | 15-45 min | 1-2 h |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 3-12 | 1-3 | 1-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Knowledge Map, Critical Knowledge Areas, Transfer Plan | System Map, Dependencies, Leverage Points | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Concept Map, Relationship Labels, Knowledge Gaps |
Tagsno overlap | KnowledgeMappingRisk | Systems thinkingMappingBoundariesChange | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | KnowledgeConceptsMappingSensemaking |



