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Criterion
Runbook workspace showing the question, observations, and next decision.
Operations
Runbook
A paper-based illustration representing arc42 with its core stages and visible working result.
Architecture
arc42
A 5 Whys working surface connects an observable problem with evidenced causes, marked uncertainty and concrete countermeasures with ownership.
Operations
5 Whys
Purposedifferent
For recurring operational tasks or incidents, the method keeps solid action logic ready. It reduces uncertainty when time pressure, role changes, or rare situations demand fast access.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.For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description.
Complexitysame
LowLowLow
Timedifferent
20-60 min1-2 Tage15-30 min
Participantsdifferent
1-41-42-6
Formatdifferent
AsyncWorkshop + asyncWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Runbook, Checklist, Escalation PathArchitecture Document, Context View, Runtime View, Deployment ViewRoot cause notes, Countermeasures
Tagsno overlap
OperationsReliabilityDocumentation
ArchitectureDocumentationCommunication
Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving
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Often compared together

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

A3 Problem-Solving workspace showing the question, observations, and next decision.
Operations
A3 Problem Solving
Incident Command workspace showing the question, observations, and next decision.
DevOps
Incident Command
Paper illustration for Kepner-Tregoe
Operations
Kepner-Tregoe
Paper illustration for Root Cause Analysis.
Operations
Root Cause Analysis