> tpl_gov_003
Enterprise Architecture Decision Framework
Governance framework standardizing Architecture Decision Records (ADRs), Architecture Review Board (ARB) submission gates, exception waivers, and Tech Radar lifecycles.
Architectural governance system formalizing lightweight ADR documentation in code, ARB peer review thresholds, and enterprise technology stack lifecycles.
Important Tech Document Template & Operational Notice
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Problem Solved
Engineering teams frequently make irreversible architectural choices (e.g. database engines, auth protocols, messaging brokers) in silos without documenting tradeoffs, leading to crippling technical debt and architectural chaos.
When to Use
- •Standardizing how software and cloud architects capture critical design tradeoffs using ADRs in git repos
- •Defining ARB evaluation criteria, review cadences, and automated waiver expiration timers
- •Publishing a company-wide Technology Radar establishing Adopt, Trial, Assess, and Hold guidelines
When NOT to Use
- •For daily minor code refactoring within a single function
- •For routine dependency patch bumps in package.json
5 Template Sections & Structural Outline
When to write an ADR (irreversible, high blast radius, cross-team impact) vs tactical RFC.
Title, Status (Draft, Accepted, Deprecated, Superseded), Context, Decision, Consequences.
Pre-flight checklists, weekly review cadences, peer architect review, and escalation triggers.
Temporary exemption criteria, time-boxed validity (maximum 90 days), and risk acceptance.
Quarterly review of languages, frameworks, datastores, and cloud managed services.
Completion Instructions
Independent Review Checklist
- All mandatory sections completed
- No secrets or passwords included
- Executive sponsor sign-off obtained
Enterprise Architecture Decision Framework - Worked Case Study
Fictional Entity: ApexScale Cloud Commerce
Real-world production case study demonstrating complete operational adoption for ApexScale Cloud Commerce.
- •Published 140+ ADRs version-controlled in monorepo, eliminating architectural amnesia
- •Established weekly ARB approving 92% of submissions within 5 business days
- •Deprecated 6 legacy datastores into Hold quadrant, cutting support overhead by 35%
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should Architecture Decision Records (ADRs) be stored?
Directly in the git repository alongside the relevant source code (e.g. /docs/adr/) so decisions evolve with the software.
How do you keep the Technology Radar relevant and not just a static wiki page?
Re-evaluate the radar quarterly through an open nomination process led by the Principal Engineers community.
Can a team deploy a technology in the Hold category if they have an urgent deadline?
Only with a formal, time-boxed architectural waiver approved by the ARB Chair and CTO, expiring in 90 days.
Download Tech Document Pack
Auth RequiredDownload all blank templates, worked scenarios, and verification manifests in a single verified archive.
Authoritative Sources
- Documenting Architecture DecisionsMichael Nygard • OFFICIAL REQUIREMENT
- Thoughtworks Technology Radar FAQThoughtworks • OFFICIAL REQUIREMENT