A question-based method for deriving software architectures

Although several approaches exist for deriving architectures from requirements and environmental constraints, most solutions rely on experienced architects for proposing and choosing feasible architectural solutions. It is critical to develop architecture systematically and without strong dependencies on experienced architects, because the architecture has a deep impact on the quality of a system. This paper presents a question-based approach for efficiently finding architecture candidates using annotated pattern and style catalogues. Following this approach allows for a systematic development of architecture, that provides documented common experience.