---
title: "Use ADRs for Thinking, Not Just Recording"
source: "https://virtualddd.com/heuristics/use-adrs-for-thinking-not-just-recording/"
authors: ["Peter Hunter", "Elena Stojmilova", "Kenny Schwegler", "Andrea Magnorsky"]
tags: ["facilitating software architecture and design", "decentralised decision-making", "adr", "software architecture"]
type: "guiding heuristics"
question: "When is the right time to write an Architecture Decision Record?"
submitter: "Elena Stojmilova"
---

# Use ADRs for Thinking, Not Just Recording

Begin writing the ADR at the start of the decision-making process, not as an afterthought for documentation. Use its structure collaboratively as a tool to guide team discussion, explore options, and identify necessary research. The document becomes a guide for deliberation.

## Examples

A team now starts by creating a draft ADR together. They use it to frame the context, list options, and decide on any spikes needed for investigation.