Rationale

GitLab requires Architecture Design Documents for all significant features. This ensures decisions are documented, reviewed, and accessible.

Requirements

  1. New features with architectural impact must have a design document
  2. Design document must include:
  3. Problem statement
  4. Proposed solution with trade-offs considered
  5. Alternatives evaluated
  6. Data model changes
  7. API contract changes
  8. Security considerations
  9. Rollback plan
  10. Design document must be reviewed by at least one architect
  11. Document must be stored in the repository or wiki

When Design Document is Required

  • New service or module
  • Database schema changes
  • API contract changes
  • Infrastructure changes
  • Security-sensitive features
  • Features affecting multiple teams

Template

# [Feature Name] Design Document

## Status: [Draft | In Review | Approved | Implemented]

## Problem Statement
## Proposed Solution
## Alternatives Considered
## Data Model
## API Contract
## Security Considerations
## Rollback Plan
## References

References