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Criterion
Paper illustration of a Polarity Map with two poles and four quadrants
Systems Thinking
Polarity Mapping
A paper-based illustration representing arc42 with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
arc42
Paper illustration for RAPID
Decision Making
RAPID
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.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.In complex management decisions, clarity is often missing about who recommends, who agrees, and who makes the decision. RAPID creates this assignment and stabilizes decisions across several levels.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
MediumLowMediumLow
Timedifferent
1-2 h1-2 Tage45-90 min15-45 min
Participantsdifferent
3-121-43-121-3
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + asyncAsync
Outputdifferent
Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance ActionsArchitecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment ViewRAPID Role Map, Recommendation, Decision LogADR File, Decision Log, Rationale
Tagsno overlap
Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership
ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication
DecisionRolesGovernance
ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance
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