Communicate architecture appropriately for the target audience and document it effectively

Even in complex projects, you keep an overview. During the training, you will learn how to document software architectures effectively, evaluate them for the target audience, and communicate them appropriately. In addition to technical aspects, the training also covers the essential organizational and social factors of architectural documentation.
The importance of good architectural documentation is often underestimated in new IT projects. However, documenting software architecture is crucial for tracking developments and changes throughout the project. It also facilitates communication within the project team as well as with customers and partners, making the design of the software system easier.

What can you expect?

In the “ADOC” module of the iSAQB Advanced Level, you will learn practical approaches to creating, optimizing, and ensuring the quality of architectural documentation. You will gain knowledge of notations, tools, and methods for documenting architectural decisions and quality requirements, enabling you to select the appropriate tools. By the end of the training, you will be able to create architectural documentation for medium to large IT systems.

➤ You should have basic knowledge from the CPSA-F (e.g., views, design decisions, constraints).
➤ Ideally, you already have experience in creating and maintaining technical documentation.
➤ You have a fundamental understanding of typical challenges such as selecting notations and integrating tools.
➤ Experience in collaborative documentation is an advantage.
➤ Knowledge of versioning and documentation processes will make it easier for you to get started.

Technical Requirements

There are no specific requirements for the training environment, as the exercises are conducted with cloud-based and web-based tools like Miro, Draw.io, and platforms such as Jupyter or HuggingFace. A stable and sufficiently fast internet connection is all that is needed.

Your Added Value

➤ You will learn how to document software architectures systematically.
➤ You will be able to evaluate existing documentation and improve it purposefully.
➤ You will consider different needs and adapt the documentation accordingly.
➤ You will use tools and templates (e.g., arc42, C4) for efficient creation.
➤ You will receive practical examples and techniques for handling real challenges.
➤ You will use reviews and feedback to enhance the quality of documentation.

Training Content in Detail

✔️ Basic Concepts of Software Architecture Documentation
➤ Benefits, goals, and stakeholder requirements.
➤ Notations (UML, BPMN) and the influence of development methods.
✔️ Documentation and Approach
➤ Structuring and creating architectural documentation.
➤ Standardized templates (arc42, C4, IEEE 1471).
✔️ Components of Architectural Documentation
➤ Architecture decisions, architectural views, quality requirements.
➤ Consistency and traceability of documentation.

✔️ Tools
➤ Analog and digital tools for documentation.
➤ Modeling tools, wikis, version control, word processing.
✔️ Evaluating Documentation
➤ Review methods, checklists, quality assurance.
✔️ Examples of Software Architecture Documentation
➤ Presentation and analysis of real architectural documentation.
➤ Comparison of different documentation approaches.
➤ Discussion of the pros and cons of various documentation methods.

Your Advantages at a Glance

➤ Structured and Efficient Documentation: Clear and traceable architectural records for all stakeholders.

➤ Quality Improvement: Enhanced consistency and traceability through proven methods and tools.

➤ Optimized Collaboration: Unified documentation standards simplify team communication and coordination.