document-decision

Architecture Decision Records document technical decisions by capturing context, decision drivers, and consequences. You create standardized ADR files using the arc42 template structure to formalize architectural choices like framework adoptions or dependency additions.

An ADR is a formal record documenting the rationale behind a significant technical choice. You should create an ADR when making major dependency additions, adopting new frameworks, or changing fundamental software patterns to ensure the rationale is preserved.

Yes, you can check for conflicting ADRs. The process involves scanning existing decision logs to prevent duplicate entries and flagging new records that supersede prior architectural decisions, maintaining a clean and searchable documentation history.

The best way to maintain consistent documentation is enforcing template compliance and project-specific naming conventions. Standardizing ADR creation with the arc42 structure ensures all technical decisions remain searchable and uniformly formatted.

Yes, the arc42 template works for logging architecture changes. It structures decision documentation with mandatory Context, Decision Drivers, Decision, and Consequences sections to capture the full rationale behind pattern shifts.