document-architectural-decisions

Write structured 12-field Architectural Decision Records using Kruchten's decision ontology.

1|Updated Apr 6, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/EnigmaWU/MyCodeAgentSkills --skill document-architectural-decisions
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: document-architectural-decisions
Source: https://github.com/EnigmaWU/MyCodeAgentSkills/tree/main/document-architectural-decisions
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/EnigmaWU/MyCodeAgentSkills --skill document-architectural-decisions

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) and assets (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill ensures comprehensive documentation of critical software and system architecture decisions, providing a rigorous framework for analysis and traceability.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • 12-Field Template: Enforces a detailed structure for Architectural Decision Records (ADRs) based on industry standards.
  • Decision Ontology: Utilizes Philippe Kruchten's decision ontology for categorization and clarity.
  • Alternatives Analysis: Facilitates a thorough comparison of alternatives with pros/cons matrices.
  • Use Case: For architects and designers creating ADRs to capture the rationale behind design choices, especially in safety-critical systems.

Quick Start

Invoke the skill with the trigger phrase "document this design decision" to start the process of creating an ADR.

Frequently Asked Questions about document-architectural-decisions

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
What is an Architectural Decision Record and when do I need one?▼

An Architectural Decision Record (ADR) documents critical software design choices to ensure traceability. You need an ADR to capture the rationale behind system architecture decisions, especially in safety-critical systems requiring rigorous analysis.

How do I document an architectural decision with alternatives analysis?▼

Document an architectural decision by writing a structured 12-field ADR that requires analyzing alternatives, arguments, and implications. This process enforces a thorough comparison of design choices with pros and cons matrices for clear traceability.

How does Kruchten's decision ontology structure software design documentation?▼

Kruchten's decision ontology structures software design documentation by providing a standardized categorization framework for ADRs. It ensures clarity and rigorous documentation of architectural choices across 12 specific fields within the record.

Can I use a 12-field template for safety-critical system architecture decisions?▼

Yes, the 12-field template is designed for architects and designers creating ADRs in safety-critical systems. It enforces a detailed structure based on industry standards to capture the full rationale and implications of design choices.

What is the best way to ensure traceability in software architecture decisions?▼

The best way to ensure traceability in software architecture decisions is to write structured ADRs using a 12-field template. This enforces rigorous documentation of design choices, alternatives, and implications adhering to Kruchten's decision ontology.

Why does my architectural documentation lack traceability for design choices?▼

Your architectural documentation lacks traceability because it does not use a structured ADR framework. Implementing a 12-field template with decision ontology enforces the analysis of alternatives and implications, providing rigorous traceability for design choices.