View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
Selected:System Dynamics SimulationATAM (Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method)Causal Loop DiagramStock and Flow Diagram
| Criterion |  Systems Thinking System Dynamics Simulation |  Architecture ATAM (Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method) |  Systems Thinking Causal Loop Diagram |  Systems Thinking Stock and Flow Diagram |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | System Dynamics Simulation makes assumptions about time, delay, and feedback testable through experiments. It draws relationships, patterns, and feedback loops. The result is captured as a simulation model and scenario reports. | 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. | 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. | A Stock and Flow Diagram shows how stocks, inflows, and outflows shape a system over time. It is especially suited when growth, delays, or capacity limits determine the dynamics. |
Complexitydifferent | High | High | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | Mehrere Tage bis Wochen | Several meetings plus preparation and analysis; total effort depends on scope | 1-3 h | 2-6 h |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 Modellierende, Stakeholder asynchron | Evaluation team, architects, and relevant stakeholders | 2-8 | 1-6 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Simulation Model, Scenario Reports | Prioritized quality scenarios in a utility tree, Architecture risks with reasoning and assumptions, Sensitivity and trade-off points, Findings report with open investigations | Causal Loop Diagram, Feedback Notes, Leverage Points | Stock and Flow Model, Dynamics Notes, Simulation Hypotheses |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingDynamicsSimulationAnalysis | ArchitectureQualityRiskTradeoffsStakeholders | FeedbackSystems thinkingCausalityDynamics | DynamicsSimulationFeedbackSystems thinking |