Cloud Architecture Document

A Cloud Architecture Document (CAD) is a comprehensive design document of the cloud solution. It describes the vision, infrastructure components, and services of the cloud environment, serving as a blueprint for the development and operations teams.

A good CAD functions as a central reference point. It can also be shared with stakeholders (e.g., management, clients) to clearly convey the architectural vision. It is important that the CAD is a living document that is updated as the project evolves, so that decisions and changes are documented.

Starting Points

• AWS Architecture Documentation Guidelines
• Cloud Architecture Documentation Best Practices

Key Points

• Presence of a structured CAD in which all core components of the cloud architecture are elaborated (services, networking, security, scalability, resilience, cost optimization, etc.).
• The CAD is actively maintained throughout the project: changes in architecture or requirements are reflected in updates to the document (version control can also be applied to the documentation).
• The document is clear and complete enough that an outsider (e.g., a new team member or stakeholder) gains understanding of the architectural vision and implementation. Any gaps or ambiguities in the CAD are recognized and addressed by the engineer.