Software Architecture Methodology

The Software Architecture Methodology course provides a structured exploration of the software architecture discipline, focusing on the architect's role, project initiation, requirements gathering, and design practices. Key topics include the creation of scalable, secure, and maintainable system architectures, with an emphasis on quality attributes such as performance, security, and scalability. Through real-world examples, tools, and frameworks, participants gain practical insights into architectural documentation and evaluation, with methods like ATAM and CBAM to assess architectural quality. Practical sessions and group discussions are integral to this course, culminating in a team-based architecture project and peer review to reinforce the concepts learned.

The course addresses core principles of software architecture, starting with foundational knowledge, exploring design tactics, and implementing best practices for documentation and evaluation. Participants engage in hands-on activities, using case studies and industry-standard tools to apply architectural techniques in real-world contexts. The course concludes with practical design exercises for collaborative team learning and review.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Design and analyze software architectures that meet system quality attributes.
• Understand the role and responsibilities of a software architect in project initiation and requirements gathering.
• Apply architectural tactics and patterns to address performance, security, and scalability needs.
• Document architectures effectively for communication with stakeholders.
• Use evaluation methods (e.g., ATAM, CBAM) to assess architecture quality and make informed design decisions.
• Work collaboratively in teams to design, document, and present architectural solutions.

The course consists of approximately 60% theory and 40% practical work, allowing participants to engage actively with architectural principles through discussions, case studies, and exercises. Group work is encouraged, with teams of 3-4 participants collaborating on practical projects.

Upon completion, participants will:

• Gain architecture design and analysis skills to ensure system quality and meet customer needs.
• Learn to design scalable, adaptable architecture for new projects.
• Apply architectural practices in real-world scenarios to reduce project risks.

• [Theory – 1h: Practice – 0.5h] Foundations of software architecture, analysis & design discipline overview.
• [Theory – 1h: Practice – 0.5h] The role of an architect in software development projects.
• [Theory – 2h: Practice – 3h] Project initiation, requirements identification.
• [Theory – 4h: Practice – 4h] Architectural design: tactics in availability, performance, security, scalability, modifiability, testability, and usability. Patterns, approaches, and styles; typical tactics applied to achieve main quality characteristics.
• [Theory – 2h: Practice – 2h] Documenting software architecture: purpose and structure of an architectural description; viewpoint-based approach and architectural views; detailed overview of the most popular viewpoints (Kruchten and Rozansky&Woods); architectural perspectives.