A software architecture blueprint is a custom software development strategy used by UI/UX designers. In a nutshell, it can be defined as a high-level map used as a model for software development. When you hire a UX designer, they will most likely create a software architecture blueprint to visualize their design prior to actual implementation or deployment.
What are the types of software blueprints?
When you hear the word “software blueprints,” there are traditionally 2 types of definitions that come to mind. Depending on the context and sector of the tech industry you’re working in, this might mean either of 2 things.
- A software blueprint is a written or graphical document meant for software architecture. This type of blueprint is for humans.
- A software blueprint is a bit of code that works as a template for other code-creating tools. These tools are responsible for creating applications. This type of blueprint is for machines.
Generally speaking, both types of software blueprints are meant to serve as planning, building, and maintenance tools for custom software development projects.
How do software blueprints help with software architecture?
Like all successful projects, custom software development projects require proper planning, documentation, and visualization. If any of these steps are skipped, the probability for errors increases significantly. Software architecture blueprints are a useful tool to help complete these necessary steps.
Blueprints play an integral role when it comes to documenting a software’s design (including UI/UX). They can be used as a way to evaluate, analyze, conceptualize, and keep record of an application’s architecture throughout the lifecycle of its creation.
When it comes to planning the next project, having a blueprint ready allows essential information and implementation requirements to reach the appropriate people. For example, the engineering team will receive their required documentation via blueprints and can begin their work from there.
How should I use blueprints for my architecture team?
Blueprints are one of the easiest ways to encourage collaboration and communication between polar opposite teams, such as your hired UX designer and computer science professionals. Non-engineering and engineering experts alike will benefit from viewing a blueprint. In fact, having a blueprint is one way to help them communicate and work together more effectively. Blueprints are able to offer a visualization of what the overarching concept behind a project is. This representation may keep teammates on the same page during situations where words may not have.
Are my blueprints detailed enough?
When you’re creating blueprints, you will need input from each stakeholder. These stakeholders have the important responsibility of thoroughly defining each requirement necessary to the project as a whole. This approach creates a sense of structure and direction for the team collectively.
Since blueprints require so much forethought at the beginning of a project, they help save time on the backend of things. Many custom software development projects work in cycles: planning, testing, implementation, etc. The amount of cycles a project will go through depends on the amount of issues that require resolving. Accordingly, having a well mapped set of blueprints for the project means less cycles and less time. This is especially true if you hire a UX designer. The UI/UX design process is heavily based on research and prototyping. Skipping out on blueprints would be detrimental to the success of a UI/UX design plan.
What should I do with old blueprints?
After you’ve constructed your blueprints and implemented them into an actual product, you’re not finished with them. You should always make a point to store all of your software blueprints in the most organized way possible. Keeping up with your blueprints is one of the best ways to start or continue recording a history of your projects.
As your product continues to evolve and grow, so will your collection of blueprints. Having these old documents isn’t just for reminiscing; you can always reference your old blueprints to examine what worked well, what didn’t, and what you could do better next time. An entire record of blueprints may help you identify trends or see the bigger picture more clearly.
It’s helpful to see where you’re at vs. where your project started. Especially when it comes to software architecture and UI/UX design, you can make more informed decisions going forward with new projects based on what you learned from old blueprints.
Get Help With Your Next Software Architecture Blueprints
245TECH has experience when it comes to creating organized, meticulous software architecture blueprints. Having blueprints can sometimes be the difference between either making or breaking a product. If you’re considering mapping out your next project but aren’t sure where to begin, give us a call at (865) 465-4040. We can offer professional guidance that will be sure to make your project a success!
