The C4 Model is a framework designed to help software development teams visualize and document software architecture. It stands for Context, Containers, Components, and Code, which represent different levels of abstraction. Each level addresses a specific set of concerns, making it easier to communicate the architecture to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. The model is widely appreciated for its clarity and ability to break down complex software designs into manageable and understandable pieces.
Create a Context diagram to outline the system's interactions with users and other systems. | Develop a Container diagram to show the high-level technology choices and how the system is segmented. | Construct a Component diagram to detail the internal structure of the containers. | Define a Code diagram to delve into the implementation details of individual components.
Regularly update diagrams to reflect changes in the system | Use tools that support the C4 Model to streamline the creation and maintenance of diagrams | Involve stakeholders from both technical and non-technical backgrounds in the review process
Improves communication across technical and non-technical stakeholders | Provides a clear and structured approach to documenting software architecture | Facilitates better understanding and maintenance of the system
Can be time-consuming to create detailed diagrams for large systems | May require tooling or skills not readily available in all teams | Risk of diagrams becoming outdated if not maintained alongside changes
When starting a new software development project | When taking over an existing project to better understand its architecture
For very small or simple projects where the overhead may not be justified | In fast-paced environments where architecture evolves frequently