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method#Architecture#Software Engineering#Communication#Methodology

ARC42

ARC42 is a structured method for documenting software architectures.

ARC42 provides a clear framework for documenting and communicating software architectures.
Established
Medium

Classification

  • Medium
  • Organizational
  • Design
  • Intermediate

Technical context

Integration with project management tools.Linkage with development environments.Connection to documentation systems.

Principles & goals

Transparent documentationInvolvement of all stakeholdersIterative improvement of documentation
Discovery
Enterprise, Domain, Team

Use cases & scenarios

Compromises

  • Insufficient documentation can lead to misunderstandings.
  • Excessive bureaucracy can hinder agility.
  • Lack of updates to documentation can lead to outdated information.
  • Regular meetings to review the architecture.
  • Involvement of all relevant stakeholders.
  • Use of templates for documentation.

I/O & resources

  • Architectural goals
  • Stakeholder feedback
  • Technical constraints
  • Complete architecture documentation
  • Architectural decisions
  • Visual architecture diagrams

Description

ARC42 provides a clear framework for documenting and communicating software architectures. The method includes various components that allow for the systematic capture and presentation of architectural decisions, requirements, and solutions.

✔

  • Improved communication between teams
  • Clarity on architectural decisions
  • Easier onboarding of new team members

✖

  • Can be time-consuming if not well planned.
  • Requires commitment from all stakeholders.
  • Can be challenging in very dynamic environments.

  • Documentation quality

    Assessment of the completeness and clarity of the documentation.

  • Stakeholder satisfaction

    Measurement of stakeholder satisfaction with the architecture.

  • Number of updates

    Frequency of updates to the documentation.

Example of an Architecture Document

An example document that illustrates the structure and content of a typical ARC42 documentation.

Case Study on the Application of ARC42

A case study describing the implementation of ARC42 in a real project.

Template for Architecture Documentation

A template that can be used as a starting point for creating ARC42 documentation.

1

Train team members in ARC42.

2

Create an initial architecture document.

3

Regularly review and update the documentation.

⚠️ Technical debt & bottlenecks

  • Outdated documentation.
  • Insufficient consideration of feedback.
  • Lack of adaptation to new technologies.
Insufficient resourcesLack of communicationUnclear requirements
  • Documentation is not updated regularly.
  • Stakeholders are not involved in the process.
  • Documentation is viewed as a one-time task.
  • Assuming all stakeholders are informed.
  • Believing that documentation is not important.
  • Overlooking changes in requirements.
Knowledge in software architecture.Ability to communicate with stakeholders.Experience in documentation.
Technological changesMarket adjustmentsRegulatory requirements
  • • Compliance with company policies.
  • • Technological constraints.
  • • Budget constraints.