Choosing the right order for JSON validation, formatting, and diffing

Validate both JSON documents first so a syntax error does not masquerade as a content change. Format them consistently, then use JSON Diff to inspect added, removed, and changed paths.

Do not dismiss every order difference automatically; array order can be meaningful even when object-key order is not. Compare important fields against the expected schema and test a sample consumer if the change affects an API.

Which change is most likely to alter behavior?