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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Systems Thinking Behavior Over Time Graph |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | 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. | A Behavior Over Time Graph shows how a metric or observation develops over time. The method makes trends, breaks, and recurring patterns visible that get lost in snapshots. | A Causal Loop Diagram makes feedback, reinforcement, and balance in a system legible. It uncovers side effects and self-reinforcement that stay hidden in linear explanations. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 15-45 min | 20-45 min | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 1-3 | 1-10 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Behavior Over Time Graph, Trend Hypotheses, Key Events | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | Systems thinkingPatternsDynamics | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics |