📌 Architecture Decision Records Summary
Architecture Decision Records, or ADRs, are short documents that capture decisions made about the architecture of a software system. Each record explains what decision was made, why it was chosen, and any alternatives that were considered. ADRs help teams keep track of important technical choices and the reasons behind them, making it easier for current and future team members to understand the system.
🙋🏻♂️ Explain Architecture Decision Records Simply
Imagine a group of friends building a treehouse who write down every big decision they make, like which kind of wood to use or where to put the ladder. This way, if someone asks later why they chose a certain thing, they can check the notes and see the reasoning.
📅 How Can it be used?
A team documents why they switched from one database system to another, so future developers understand the reasoning behind the change.
🗺️ Real World Examples
A software team is developing a web application and needs to choose between a monolithic or microservices architecture. They write an ADR explaining why they chose microservices, detailing the benefits, drawbacks, and the alternatives they considered. This record helps new team members quickly understand the decision and its context.
During the development of a mobile app, a team decides to use a specific authentication method. They create an ADR that outlines why this method was selected, including the security requirements and limitations of other options. When security audits occur later, the ADR provides clear documentation supporting their choice.
✅ FAQ
What is an Architecture Decision Record and why should I use one?
An Architecture Decision Record, or ADR, is a simple document that explains a key decision made about how a software system is built. It describes what was decided, why that choice was made, and what other options were considered. Using ADRs helps everyone understand the reasons behind important decisions, which can be very useful if you need to explain your thinking to new team members or remember why something was done a certain way months or years later.
How do Architecture Decision Records help teams work together?
ADRs make it easier for teams to share knowledge and keep track of important choices. When decisions are written down, everyone can see what has been agreed and why. This reduces confusion, helps avoid repeating old discussions, and makes it much simpler for new people to get up to speed. ADRs also help teams learn from past decisions and improve the way they make choices in the future.
Are Architecture Decision Records only for big projects?
No, ADRs are useful for projects of any size. Even small teams or simple projects can benefit from keeping a record of important decisions. It does not take much time to write an ADR, but having a clear history of choices can save a lot of time and effort later, especially if things need to change or if the team grows.
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🔗 External Reference Links
Architecture Decision Records link
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