Visualizing Software Architecture with the C4 Model

🧩The C4 model provides a hierarchical set of abstractions for visualizing software architecture, including software systems, containers, components, and code.

🔍Each level of the C4 model corresponds to a specific diagram type, such as system context, container, component, and code. These diagrams can tell different stories to different audiences.

🖥️Diagramming tools like Visio or diagrams.net can be used to create C4 diagrams, but they have limitations, such as difficulty in maintaining consistency and automation.

📝Diagrams as code is an emerging approach that allows you to generate diagrams from text, making it easier to maintain consistency and automate diagram creation.

🔄The C4 model is notation-independent, meaning you can use different notations such as UML, ArchiMate, or SML to create C4 diagrams.

What is the purpose of the C4 model?

—The C4 model is used to visualize software architecture in a clear and structured way, providing a common language and set of diagrams.

Can I use any diagramming tool to create C4 diagrams?

—Yes, you can use diagramming tools like Visio or diagrams.net to create C4 diagrams. However, these tools have limitations, and alternative approaches like diagrams as code are gaining popularity.

How does the C4 model handle changes in the software architecture?

—The C4 model provides a hierarchical structure that allows you to easily update and maintain your diagrams as the software architecture evolves. Diagrams as code can also help automate the process.

What are the advantages of using diagrams as code?

—Diagrams as code offer benefits such as version control, automated generation, and easier collaboration. They also provide the ability to create consistent and maintainable diagrams.

Is the C4 model limited to specific notations like UML?

—No, the C4 model is notation-independent, meaning you can use different diagramming notations like UML, ArchiMate, or SML to create C4 diagrams based on your preferences or project requirements.

00:00Introduction and overview of the C4 model and its purpose.

06:30Explanation of the system context diagram and its role in visualizing the environment and system interactions.

08:58Introduction to the container diagram and its importance in depicting major technology building blocks and their responsibilities.

11:59Discussion on the limitations of traditional diagramming tools and the concept of diagrams as code for more efficient and consistent diagram creation.

12:59Benefits of the C4 model's notation-independence, allowing the use of different diagramming notations to create C4 diagrams.