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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Architecture arc42 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 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. | 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 | Medium | Low | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 15-45 min | 1-3 h | 1-2 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 1-3 | 2-8 | 1-4 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication |