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Software Architecture Decision Records Guide | ADR Documentation & Frameworks

Architecture Decision Records (ADRs) provide a structured approach to documenting crucial choices made during software development, fostering transparency and collaboration within teams.

mysimulator teamUpdated June 2026≈ 3 min read▶ Open the simulation

Software Architecture Decision Records

Documenting Architectural Decisions and Decision-Making Frameworks

Introduction to Architecture Decision Records

Example: ADR Template

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Architecture Decision Record (ADR)?

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recommended for version control.

How do I organize ADRs?

Store ADRs in version control (e.g., docs/adr/ directory). Use sequential numbering (ADR-001, ADR-002) or date-based

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between an Architecture Decision Record and a design document?

What is the difference between ADR and design document?

Does an ADR focus on a single decision and why it was made?

ADR focuses on a single decision and why it was made.

Are ADRs and design documents decision-focused? Design documents a?

and decision-focused. Design documents are comprehensive and implementation-focused.

How do I use ADRs for documentation?

docs for implementation.

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