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Criterion
Paper illustration of a Polarity Map with two poles and four quadrants
Systems Thinking
Polarity Mapping
A3 Problem-Solving workspace showing the question, observations, and next decision.
Operations
A3 Problem Solving
A paper-based illustration representing arc42 with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
arc42
Paper illustration of two considered options leading to a decision record with a marked status and visible consequences.
Architecture
Architecture Decision Record
Purposedifferent
Polarity Mapping makes tensions between two opposing poles tangible, such as standardization and adaptation or control and autonomy. The method guards against making apparent either-or decisions prematurely.For a complex deviation with several people involved, the method bundles problem, analysis, and decision onto one page. It creates a shared working space where causes, countermeasures, and follow-up fit together.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.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.
Complexitydifferent
MediumMediumLowLow
Timedifferent
1-2 h45-90 min1-2 Tage15-45 min
Participantsdifferent
3-122-51-41-3
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncAsync
Outputdifferent
Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance ActionsA3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause AnalysisArchitecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment ViewADR File, Decision Log, Rationale
Tagsno overlap
Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership
LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations
ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication
ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance
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