Architecture Patterns Skill

Triggers

• architecture
• system design
• scalability
• microservices
• event-driven
• serverless

Purpose

To help the user or agent select the most appropriate system architecture based on improved Non-Functional Requirements (NFRs) like scalability, cost, maintainability, and latency.

Instructions

When designing a system or component:

1. Analyze NFRs: Identify the key constraints.

   • High Scalability? -> Consider Microservices or Space-Based.
   • Complex Domain? -> Consider Domain-Driven Design (DDD) with Modular Monolith.
   • Real-time Data? -> Consider Event-Driven Architecture (EDA).
   • variable Workloads? -> Consider Serverless.

2. Evaluate Patterns:

   • Layered (N-Tier): Standard for simple web apps. separation of concerns.
   • Modular Monolith: Best starting point for most startups. High cohesion, low deployment complexity.
   • Microservices: For large teams and distinct scaling needs. High operational complexity.
   • Event-Driven (EDA): For decoupled, reactive systems.
   • Space-Based: For extreme concurrency (in-memory data grids).
   • CQRS: For separate read/write scaling profiles.

3. Recommend:

   • Propose 1-2 patterns.
   • Justify with "Pros vs Cons" relative to the specific project.
   • Use ARCH_DECISION_FRAMEWORK.md to document the choice.

Best Practices

• Start Simple: Modular Monolith is often the best default.
• Defer Complexity: Don't use Microservices until you have a specific problem they solve.
• Evolutionary Arch: Design for change. Use "Fitness Functions" to measure architectural drift.