Architecture Decision Records: Why, When, and How?
Creating a successful and efficient software architecture is like constructing a puzzle. Each piece should fit perfectly to create a complete, beautiful picture. In the world of software engineering, the picture is the functioning and scalable software application, and the puzzle pieces are the critical decisions we make during the design process. However, we all know that those puzzle pieces don’t just magically appear. They are the result of thought-out, concrete, and justified decisions. And how do we record these decisions? That’s where Architecture Decision Records (ADRs) come in.
Why Use ADRs?
Transparency and Clarity
In the software development, the question “Why did we do that?” pops up more frequently than you might think. ADRs provide a historical context, presenting clear reasons for the decisions, eliminating guesswork, and fostering understanding across the team.
Enhancing Communication
ADRs provide a platform for conversation. They help facilitate active discussions, which aids in better decision-making and building a more collaborative team.
Traceability and Accountability
As they say, “Success has many fathers, but failure is an orphan.” ADRs hold each decision and its maker accountable. This encourages thoughtful decision-making, knowing that decisions will be documented and analyzed.
When to Use ADRs?
Significant architectural changes
If a decision will affect the system’s overall behavior or structure, it is necessary to create an ADR. For example, when deciding to switch from a monolithic architecture to a microservices one, it would be helpful to have a detailed ADR explaining the reasons, expected benefits, and potential drawbacks.
Exploring multiple solutions
When a problem has several potential solutions, an ADR can help evaluate and compare these options based on their pros and cons. This way, you can arrive at the most feasible and beneficial decision.
Post-incident analysis
When a significant software failure occurs, an ADR can document the root cause analysis and the decided solution. This not only helps in learning from past mistakes but also ensures they don’t recur.
How to Successfully Use ADRs?
Keep it Simple
ADRs don’t need to be war and peace. They should be concise, easy to understand, and accessible to all team members, not just tech geeks.
Make it Collaborative
ADRs should be created collaboratively. Input from various perspectives enriches the decision-making process and ensures a more comprehensive understanding.
Regularly Update
ADRs should evolve along with the system. It’s necessary to keep them updated to reflect the current state of decisions.
ADR Template
In order to start with ADRs it is good to have a template which you can use as a basis and modify and improve it gradually as project evolves according to your own needs. To start there is a very good base ADR template created by Michael Nygard which you can use:
Just like blueprints in architecture, ADRs provide a roadmap for software development, offering an invaluable insight into the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of crucial decisions. By creating a shared understanding, they empower teams to work collaboratively and efficiently. Ultimately, the effective use of ADRs brings us one step closer to the successful puzzle — our software application.
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