arc42 is a template for documenting software and system architectures. It is designed to help architects efficiently communicate design decisions and structural concepts without being overly prescriptive. The template is structured to cover all relevant aspects of an architecture, including requirements, constraints, quality goals, and the rationale behind architectural decisions.
arc42 is particularly useful for ensuring consistency and clarity in architectural documentation, making it easier for teams to understand and work with complex systems. Given its flexibility and comprehensive nature, it has become a widely adopted standard in the industry for architecture documentation, which is why it resides in the "adopt" ring.
In the "methods-and-patterns" quadrant, arc42 is relevant because it provides a structured approach to documenting architectures, which is an essential part of the architectural process. By adopting arc42, organizations can improve communication across teams and stakeholders, facilitating better understanding and collaboration in software development projects.