architecture

An architecture decision record (ADR) captures the problem, options considered, chosen decision, and rationale for system design choices. You need ADR documentation during early design phases, system redesigns, or technology migrations to align team constraints.

To create an ADR for a new feature, outline the problem statement, compare architectural options using trade-off evaluation, document the chosen decision, and capture the rationale. This structured ADR template ensures traceability and team alignment.

Trade-off evaluation analyzes requirements and compares architectural patterns against project constraints. By applying structured ADR templates, you evaluate options and capture rationale to steer design choices and maintain decision tracking governance.

Yes, ADRs are explicitly designed for technology migrations and system redesigns. The architecture decision framework analyzes requirements, compares pattern options, and centralizes documentation to align with constraints during structural overhauls.

The best way to document architecture decisions is using ADRs for governance. Centralizing decision records provides traceability, captures rationale for chosen patterns, and ensures team alignment across early design phases and migrations.