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| Criterion |  Systems Thinking Systems Mapping |  Architecture C4 Model |  Domain Modeling Domain Context Map |  Domain Modeling Context Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | Systems Mapping arranges elements, relationships, and boundaries so a complex field becomes legible at a glance. The overview stabilizes the overall picture before detail work or steering begins. | 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. | When a domain model and its associated contexts need to be thought through together, it creates a shared overview. It connects the business view and organizational boundary into a readable whole. | When several contexts need to talk to each other, it makes their relationships and dependencies legible. It helps sort integration pressure and responsibilities across system boundaries. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 1-4 h | 1-3 h | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 3-12 | 1-5 | 3-10 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | System Map, Dependencies, Leverage Points | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | Domain Context Map, Boundary Notes, Ownership Map | Context Map, Integration Patterns, Boundary Notes |
Tagsno overlap | Systems thinkingMappingBoundariesChange | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | Domain-Driven DesignContextBoundaries | Domain-Driven DesignBoundariesStrategy |