D - Questions on modeling

Question D-1: Why do I need a 'model'? I have source code.

Question D-2: What alternatives to UML exist for architecture models?

Question D-3: How do arc42 and UML relate to each other?

Question D-4: How can I use UML to communicate a hierarchy of building blocks?

Question D-5: How can I describe interfaces with UML?

Question D-6: What can I use UML ports for?

Question D-7: How can I improve the 'understandability' of my diagrams/models?

Question D-8: How can I reduce the number of elements in a component /building block diagram?

Question D-9: How can I improve the consistency of models?

Prefer to learn arc42 hands-on?

Practical architecture training, most classes taught by Peter Hruschka and Gernot Starke — the people who created arc42 and maintain this FAQ (dates with other trainers say so) — and solid preparation for iSAQB certifications.

Next dates

15–17 Sep 2026 DE Req4Arc · Frankfurt/Maingetting your requirements right
29 Sep–1 Oct 2026 EN Mastering SW Architectures · onlineperfect preparation for iSAQB CPSA-Foundation certification · with Wolfgang Reimesch
27–28 Oct 2026 DE ADOC · Züricharchitecture documentation · with Gernot Starke
24–26 Nov 2026 DE IMPROVE · Hamburgevolve and maintain systems · with Carola Lilienthal & Gernot Starke
1–4 Dec 2026 DE Mastering SW Architectures · Münchenperfect preparation for iSAQB CPSA-Foundation certification
2–5 Mar 2027 DE Mastering SW Architectures · Münchenperfect preparation for iSAQB CPSA-Foundation certification
9–11 Mar 2027 DE Req4Arc · Münchengetting your requirements right
2–3 Jun 2027 DE ADOC · Mannheim oder Frankfurt (t.b.d.)architecture documentation

All courses and dates: trainings.arc42.org · as of 4 Aug 2026