Module 6: Architectural Styles

Module 6 of the Foundations of Software Architecture course, based on A Software Architecture Primer by John Reekie and Rohan McAdam.

Text-reading questions

What is a pattern?
Why is it good that certain structures occur repeatedly in architecture and design?
What is a pipe-and-filter architecture? Name some benefits and liabilities.
What is a client-server architecture? Name some benefits and liabilities.
What is the key characteristic that indicates a need for a layered architecture?
Name three common examples of layered architectures.
Who (typically) communicates with the top layer?
Who (typically) communicates with the bottom layer?
Can layer number $J$ depend on layer $J-2$?
What are the two types of (recommended) interfaces to layers?
What are the three tiers in the logical 3-tier model? What are the responsibilities of each tier?
What is a thin client?
What is the difference between a layered architecture and an N-tier architecture?

What is the most difficult part of designing a layered architecture?
Describe the key lessons contained in the paper entitled The Big Ball of Mud, by Brian Foote and Joseph Yoder.