Answers
What is an ADR (architecture decision record)?
In short
An Architecture Decision Record (ADR) is a short document capturing a meaningful technical decision, its context, the options considered and the consequences.
Short answer
An Architecture Decision Record (ADR) is a short document capturing a meaningful technical decision, its context, the options considered and the consequences.
What this actually means in practice
ADRs are how teams remember why a decision was made when the people who made it have moved on. Keep them short, in source control, numbered and immutable. New decisions supersede old ones.
The most common pitfall
Treating ADRs as paperwork rather than as institutional memory.
What to do next
Pick one meaningful recent decision; write the ADR retroactively.
Frequently asked questions
Does Forth Systems help with this?
Yes — Forth Systems works with banks, payment institutions, insurers and infrastructure operators on exactly this kind of work. Engagements start with a fixed-scope assessment so you see the shape before committing.
How experienced is the team?
Engagements are staffed by named, UK-based senior engineers — not a rotating offshore pool. References from the second line of comparable clients are available on request.
Where are you based?
Edinburgh-based, delivering UK-wide with onsite presence in London and across Scotland as required.
How fast can we start?
Most engagements start within 2-4 weeks of a signed SoW, faster where an existing supplier framework is in place.