Selecting a Style — Context-First Checklist

There's no one-size-fits-all in software architecture. The best approach is to start with your project's context—what you really need, what you have, and what you can handle. Use a checklist to guide your choice, so you match your design to real-world demands instead of trends or buzzwords.

Think of picking a car. Do you need a big SUV for family trips, a compact for city driving, or a van for deliveries? You don't buy a race car for school runs. Likewise, the right architecture depends on your team size, requirements, deadlines, and long-term goals.

• Team size and skill set
• Business priorities and deadlines
• How much change and growth you expect
• How much risk and complexity you can handle