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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping |  Architecture C4 Model |  Decision Making Force Field Analysis |  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. | The C4 Model makes a system legible across several resolution levels, from context down to code. It suits situations where different audiences need to understand the same architecture from different altitudes. | In change initiatives, supporting and restraining forces sit at the table at the same time. Force Field Analysis makes these tensions explicit and shows where change can be pushed forward by strengthening or relieving. | 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 | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 1-4 h | 45-90 min | 1-2 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 1-5 | 3-12 | 1-4 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Force Field Map, Change Levers, Risk Notes | Architecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment View |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | ChangeDecisionStrategy | ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication |