methodatlas
Compare

View methods side by side.

Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.

Criterion
Rich Picture workspace showing the question, observations, and next decision.
Systems Thinking
Rich Picture
A paper-based illustration representing C4 Model with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
C4 Model
Causal Loop Diagram workspace showing the question, observations, and next decision.
Systems Thinking
Causal Loop Diagram
Purposedifferent
A Rich Picture brings an unclear situation onto a shared drawing. It captures actors, tensions, information flows, and blind spots before the team jumps to solutions too early.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.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.
Complexitydifferent
LowLowMedium
Timedifferent
30-90 min1-4 h1-3 h
Participantsdifferent
2-101-52-8
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Rich Picture, Problem Framing NotesContext Diagram, Container Diagram, Component DiagramCausal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points
Tagsno overlap
Systems thinkingSoft systemsFramingVisualization
ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization
FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics
Add more methods

Often compared together

Methods with strong topical overlap with the current selection, not yet in the comparison.

Stock and Flow Diagram method illustration showing its working structure
Systems Thinking
Stock and Flow Diagram
Architecture Communication Canvas method illustration showing its working structure
Architecture
Architecture Communication Canvas
Design sheets and interface cards connect to jointly written pseudocode with highlighted unresolved questions.
Architecture
ARID (Active Reviews for Intermediate Designs)