v1.0 · Design Methodology Research

Mapping design methodologies
across system layers

To navigate complexity and product architecture — you need to see the full territory first. StratoAtlas maps 44 methodologies across 7 system levels and 4 action axes.

44Methodologies
7System levels
4Action axes
Confirmed gaps

Three things no single methodology book gives you

01
The full landscape

Design Thinking, TRIZ, Wardley, Cynefin, Kano — side by side. Not a reading list. A map of how they relate.

02
Where the gaps are

Some cells are empty — not by accident. Historical gaps show where the industry has not built tools yet.

03
When NOT to use a method

Every entry includes application context, limitations, and uncertainty type. The right tool for the wrong problem is still the wrong tool.

Confirmed gap

The zone where industry tools run out

Resolution of contradictions at the Architecture, Interface, and Workflow levels is nearly empty on the map. TRIZ exists — but was never adapted for digital product systems.

This is not a content gap in the map. It is a gap in the industry. The map makes it visible.

CDPA zone — the area of lowest methodological density. Where systematic contradiction-driven product architecture begins to fill the gap.

System level × Action axis
CDPA zone
historical gap ∅