architecture-decision-records

You can document architectural decisions by capturing structured records that include context, alternatives, and consequences directly within your project's directory structure. This ensures design rationale is preserved alongside the codebase for future team members.

An architectural decision record is a structured document that captures technical trade-offs and design patterns requiring formal documentation. You need one when your team debates choices like adopting a new library and wants to prevent architectural knowledge loss.

You can standardize architectural documentation by enforcing a consistent ADR template across all recorded decisions and maintaining a historical index. This enforces a uniform format including context, alternatives, and consequences for every project decision.

Yes, this decision tracking approach requires no external dependencies. It relies solely on establishing a consistent directory structure within your codebase and adhering to the provided ADR template for all recorded decisions.

The best way to track rejected alternatives is by documenting the rationale and trade-offs within a structured architectural decision record. This formalizes the decision-making process and ensures future team members understand why specific choices were rejected.

You should avoid using formal architectural decision records for ephemeral communication or minor implementation details that do not involve significant technical trade-offs. They are specifically designed for formal documentation of major architectural choices and design patterns.