Software Architecture Atlas
Build software that fits, lasts and grows.
Welcome. Get the big picture of software architecture: clear explanations and building blocks, all using the same example shop. See how topics connect and go deeper where you need to.
88 building blocks · 12 areas · architecture process with 8 Stages
One shop, twelve questions ↓
One shop connects the topics
One shop, twelve architecture questions.
Every building block uses the same example shop. Each point marks where an architecture question arises. Choose a number to explore the relevant building block.
- Catalogue
- Basket
- Order→ Broker
- Payment→ Payment provider
- Inventory
- Shipping→ Shipping carrier
- Invoice← Invoice worker
8Chapter II · Distributed systems
What happens if the connection to the payment provider drops after sending a request?
The atlas at a glance
12 areas, three questions each.
Three chapters take you from foundations through design to operations. Each area groups its building blocks around three questions, each linking to a relevant starting point.
Lay the foundations
Design systems
Learn from operations
Learn by experimenting
Change a setting and see what happens.
Each building block includes an interactive example. Try four of them here: choose a case, change a setting and inspect the result.
Breaker states for the payment call
Trigger calls or let the waiting period expire, then observe the state and error counter.
- ClosedCalls pass through; consecutive errors are counted.
- OpenCalls are rejected immediately; the provider remains untouched.
- Semi-openThe next call is a probe that decides the next state.
- Calls to Zahlungsanbieter Initiation
Inside each building block
From an overview to a self-check.
All 88 building blocks follow the same structure. Read as far as you need. Example: Circuit Breaker
- 1Context
Why the topic matters, with an at-a-glance diagram.
- 2Shop example
An interactive example using the shop.
- 3Benefits & limitations
Where it helps and where its limits lie.
- 4In practice
Practical steps for your project.
- 5Check your understanding
Three questions: read, apply and evaluate.
- 6Explore further
Related building blocks and neighbouring areas.
- 7References
Books and standards for further reading.
Put knowledge into practice
Architecture takes shape step by step.
The architecture process connects these building blocks to your work: clarify goals, weigh options, test decisions and learn from operations.
Explore the process- 01RequirementsRequirements & quality goals
- 02BoundariesSystem boundaries & responsibilities
- 03OptionsOptions & trade-offs
- 04DesignDesign structure & runtime
- 05AssessmentAssess quality & risks
- 06CommunicationCommunicate decisions
- 07OperationsGuide implementation & operations
- 08EvolutionEvolve architecture
Findings from evaluation and operations feed back into the design.
Good to know
Getting started with the atlas.
Where would you like to start?
Start with a question. The atlas shows how things connect.