Reviews for Documenting Software Architectures: Views and Beyond (SEI Series in Software Engineering)

1. not very useful

   Rated 2 out of 5 stars, November 12nd, 2008

   I didn't find the book very useful...or enjoyable to read. If you are new to architecture you may want to read something with a broader scope. If you are experienced in the field you are probably already familiar with the views and techniques presented.

2. Could have been so much better

   Rated 4 out of 5 stars, December 12th, 2003

   Don't get me wrong the book is good, the discussion of numerous views, styles is great and it provokes a lot of structured thinking, it's a book I would recommend.

   BUT, it could have been so much better... (hence only 4 stars)

   1. Needs more example models & diagrams, a picture is worth 1000 words.
   2. It should be about modelling not documenting, but hey that IS the title of the book!
   3. The final section that discusses the views proposed by RUP, siemens, ODP etc are clearly an afterthought as they don't really tell you much and are so 'standalone'.
   4. Amazingly there is no discussion of frameworks.
   5. The MDA paradigm isn't even touched upon - a major ommission IMHO.

   Ultimately though it's the best book I've read on the subject, just left me with half the answer...

3. Good views on software architecture

   Rated 4 out of 5 stars, January 12th, 2003

   The book is written primarily for software architects and technical writers (with respect to software architecture). And for that, I like it. The book provides great insight on documenting software architectures and best practices like the "7 rules for sound documentation". I found it especially good on using multiple views and how to write readable and understandable documentation.

   I think (experienced) software architects working on complex projects will like this book. I don't think it is suitable for beginners.