Architects are responsible for designing how digital systems, data, and technology fit together to deliver services.
If you want to learn more about the role, read the capability framework.
This collection documents the architecture principles, standards and guidance that we expect teams working in DfE to follow when designing services.
It complements the UK Government Service Manual and its technology section, which covers service design more broadly.
It should be used in conjunction with the DfE Digital Technical Guidance, when building digital services.
Core DfE architecture design
Blueprints that define how to make better use of data, reduce duplication and deliver well-structured, joined-up DfE services.
Principles
Principles DfE architects are expected to follow.
Patterns
Patterns that help delivery teams avoid reinventing solutions every time they build or change a service
Roles and capability
Role-specific guidance and responsibilities and how different teams contribute to DfE service delivery.
Community and profession
Learn how the architecture profession is organised in DfE, how to document decisions, where repositories are managed, and how to join the community.
Governance and assurance
Guidance on architecture design governance and assurance in DfE, including standards, self-certification, exemptions and decision-making.