View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
Selected:Three-Point EstimationATAM (Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method)Dot EstimationPERT Estimation
| Criterion | ![]() Decision Making Three-Point Estimation | ![]() Architecture ATAM (Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method) | ![]() Facilitation Dot Estimation | ![]() Decision Making PERT Estimation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | A single estimate for effort, time, or risk often looks too smooth for the real uncertainty behind it. It separates options, evaluation criteria, and open risks. The result is captured as a Three-Point Estimate, Risk Range, and Assumption Notes. | 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. | When size or effort can only be estimated roughly, Dot Estimation condenses the group's experience into a quick range. It turns individual contributions into a visible selection. The result is captured as an Effort Heatmap, Risk Signals, and Discussion Targets. | On complex initiatives, a plain average tends to understate just how uncertain the outcome really is. It separates options, evaluation criteria, and open risks. The result is captured as a PERT Estimate, Expected Value, and Risk Notes. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | High | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 10-30 min je Item | Several meetings plus preparation and analysis; total effort depends on scope | 5-20 min | 15-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-8 | Evaluation team, architects, and relevant stakeholders | 3-20 | 1-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Three-Point Estimate, Risk Range, Assumption Notes | Prioritized quality scenarios in a utility tree, Architecture risks with reasoning and assumptions, Sensitivity and trade-off points, Findings report with open investigations | Effort Heatmap, Risk Signals, Discussion Targets | PERT Estimate, Expected Value, Risk Notes |
Tagsno overlap | EstimationUncertaintyForecasting | ArchitectureQualityRiskTradeoffsStakeholders | EstimationEffortRisk | EstimationUncertaintyRisk |



