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Criterion
Paper illustration of a Polarity Map with two poles and four quadrants
Systems Thinking
Polarity Mapping
Paper illustration for Expectation Mapping.
Facilitation
Expectation Mapping
Software Architecture Canvas method illustration showing its working structure
Architecture
Software Architecture Canvas
Paper illustration: scenarios and architectural decisions are connected to identified risks.
Architecture
ATAM (Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method)
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.When roles, interfaces, or projects fail because of differing expectations, Expectation Mapping surfaces these differences. It shows what each side takes for granted and where the pictures diverge.The Software Architecture Canvas reduces a system to the most important architecture decisions, constraints, and interfaces. It is useful when teams need a resilient overall picture quickly.ATAM helps teams weigh architecture decisions when quality goals compete. The team considers business goals, stakeholder expectations, and technical decisions together. The evaluation shows which risks need further investigation.
Complexitydifferent
MediumLowLowHigh
Timedifferent
1-2 h45-90 min1-2 hSeveral meetings plus preparation and analysis; total effort depends on scope
Participantsdifferent
3-123-123-10Evaluation team, architects, and relevant stakeholders
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshopWorkshopWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance ActionsExpectation Map, Alignment Notes, AgreementsArchitecture Canvas, Goals, Constraints, Quality AttributesPrioritized quality scenarios in a utility tree, Architecture risks with reasoning and assumptions, Sensitivity and trade-off points, Findings report with open investigations
Tagsno overlap
Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership
AlignmentStakeholdersTeam
CanvasArchitectureAlignmentWorkshop
ArchitectureQualityRiskTradeoffsStakeholders
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