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Selected:Polarity MappingSAAM (Software Architecture Analysis Method)Force Field AnalysisLeverage Points
| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Polarity Mapping |  Architecture SAAM (Software Architecture Analysis Method) |  Decision Making Force Field Analysis |  Systems Thinking Leverage Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | SAAM helps teams judge an architecture’s suitability for selected tasks and changes. It is particularly useful for examining modifiability and comparing architecture alternatives with clear reasoning. | 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. | Leverage Points show exactly where interventions in a system produce a disproportionate effect. It draws relationships, patterns, and feedback loops. The result is captured as a leverage map and action strategy. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | High | Low | High |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | Preparation, scenario analysis, and findings review; effort depends on scope | 45-90 min | Half day |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | Architecture experts and stakeholders for scenarios and weighting | 3-12 | 3-12 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Polarity Map, Warning Signs, Balance Actions | Domain functions mapped to components and connections, Quality attributes and evaluation criteria, Typical tasks and their effects on the architecture, Reasoned evaluation or comparison of alternatives | Force Field Map, Change Levers, Risk Notes | Leverage Map, Action Strategy |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingTradeoffsLeadership | ArchitectureChangeAnalysisComparisonQuality | ChangeDecisionStrategy | Systems thinkingChangeStrategy |