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| Criterion |  Business Strategy TOWS Matrix |  Architecture C4 Model |  Architecture Architecture Decision Record |
|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | The TOWS Matrix connects internal strengths and weaknesses with external opportunities and threats into action-oriented strategies. It goes a step further than a pure stocktaking. | 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. | An ADR permanently records an architecture decision with context, trade-offs, and consequence. It creates continuity for later changes because the decision path stays traceable. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-2 h | 1-4 h | 15-45 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-10 | 1-5 | 1-3 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Async |
Outputdifferent | TOWS Matrix, Strategic Options, Priority Actions | Context Diagram, Container Diagram, Component Diagram | ADR File, Decision Log, Rationale |
Tagsno overlap | StrategyAnalysisOptions | ArchitectureCommunicationVisualization | ArchitectureRationaleDocumentationGovernance |
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