Architecture Principles
Architecture principles are fundamental rules and guidelines that inform and support the way we design and develop technology solutions across NHS Wales. They help ensure consistency, promote best practices, and align our technology decisions with organisational goals.
Approved Principles
The following principles have been formally reviewed and approved by the DHCW Technical Design Authority (TDA):
- Architecture Principles - Our foundational principles that guide all architectural decisions
- Open Architecture & Integration - Guidelines for creating interoperable and extensible systems
- Digital Workplace - Principles for creating effective digital working environments
- Data & Analytics - Guidelines for data management, analytics, and insights
- Cloud & Infrastructure - Principles for cloud adoption and infrastructure design
- Security & Identity - Core security and identity management principles
Principles Under Development
The following principles are currently being developed and reviewed. While not yet formally approved, they provide valuable guidance in their respective areas:
- User-Centred Design - Principles for creating services that meet user needs
- Digital Products & Software Engineering - Best practices for building and maintaining digital products
- Clinical Principles (Coming Soon) - Guidelines for clinical systems and healthcare technology
Using These Principles
These principles should be:
- Referenced when making architectural decisions
- Used to evaluate proposed solutions
- Considered during system design and development
- Referenced in Architecture Decision Records (ADRs)
If you need to deviate from these principles, document your rationale in an ADR and seek appropriate approval through the governance process.
Contributing
If you'd like to suggest changes to existing principles or propose new ones, please follow our ADR process and raise your proposal through the appropriate channels.