The Art of the 48-Hour Architecture Document
Every engagement I take begins with a 48-hour architecture sprint: no code, just design. I produce a written document covering the database schema, API contract, infrastructure diagram, and deployment strategy. Here is how to write one.
The Source of Truth
The architecture document becomes the single source of truth for the entire project lifetime. Every decision lives here—changes require formal amendment.
Section 1: The Database Schema
ERDs, JSONB strategy, indexing, RLS policies—all written before code. Exact formatting and examples provided.
Section 2: The API Contract
Full OpenAPI spec with examples and auth. How to make it client-readable.
Section 3: Infrastructure & Deployment
Coolify topology, Docker networks, CI/CD. Visual diagrams that non-technical stakeholders understand.
Stakeholder Alignment
Present visually to non-technical clients to establish authority and lock scope. Presentation script included.
Conclusion & Template
Exact Markdown template for immediate adoption. Copy, fill, sign, ship.
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