Phase G, Implementation GovernanceDerived from Nygard ADRQuick · 15 minutes per ADR

Architecture Decision Record

Document an architecture decision in the Nygard format with context, decision, status and consequences so the reasoning survives the meeting.

All tools

When to use

Whenever a significant, difficult-to-reverse architecture decision is taken. ADRs become the searchable long-term memory of the architecture capability.

You'll need

  • The question being decided
  • The options seriously considered and the evidence that supports the choice

You'll get

  • A numbered ADR with a stable status and full consequences list
  • A searchable record that new team members can read cold

Taught in

Derived from

  • Derived from Open blog post (referenced), Nygard, "Documenting Architecture Decisions" (2011). View source
  • Aligned with TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition, {S5} Architecture Contracts. View source

Full citation: Derived from Open blog post (referenced), Nygard, "Documenting Architecture Decisions" (2011); Aligned with TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition, {S5} Architecture Contracts