CPSA CPSA Architecture Decision Making Questions and Answers 3

Question 1

In the iSAQB framework, what is the difference between 'design decisions' and 'architectural decisions'?

Accepted Answer

Architectural decisions have broader impact and are harder to change than typical design decisions

Answer

Architectural decisions are a subset of design decisions with system-wide impact, high change cost, and significant quality attribute implications.

Question 2

When using a decision log, what is the recommended status lifecycle for an ADR?

Accepted Answer

Proposed → Accepted → Deprecated/Superseded

Answer

ADRs typically move from Proposed through Accepted, and may later become Deprecated or Superseded when a new decision replaces them.

Question 3

Which approach helps prevent 'big design up front' while still making sound early architectural decisions?

Accepted Answer

Making architectural decisions just-in-time with enough information to reduce risk, then evolving as knowledge grows

Answer

Just-in-time decision making defers choices until the last responsible moment, balancing the need for structure with agile adaptability.

Question 4

How does risk-driven architecture relate to architectural decision making?

Accepted Answer

It prioritizes architectural decisions that address the highest-priority risks first

Answer

Risk-driven architecture directs architectural effort toward decisions that reduce the most significant risks to the project's success.

Question 5

What is the significance of 'context' in an Architecture Decision Record?

Accepted Answer

It describes the situation, forces, and constraints that led to the need for a decision

Answer

The context section explains the forces and constraints at play, making the decision understandable to future readers who lack the original background.

CPSA Exam Practice Test

CPSA Exam Practice Test

CPSA CPSA Architecture Decision Making Questions and Answers 3