Due Diligence - Software Architecture

Description

This template lays out a detailed checklist covering all major aspects of a product’s architecture, including tech stack documentation, design patterns, integration models, open source usage, technical debt strategies, scalability metrics, and third-party components. It captures each architectural element's current state and tracks associated risks and priorities.

The structure allows engineering and leadership teams to attach relevant documentation, provide notes, mark completion status, and flag priority levels, enabling organized collaboration and visibility throughout the diligence process.

Key Data Stored

• Architecture Overview – Diagrams and descriptions of frontend/backend tech stacks and infrastructure
• Design Patterns Used – Such as MVC, message bus, or microservices
• Third-Party Integrations – APIs, open-source components, and vendor services
• Scalability and Performance – Capabilities in terms of maintainability, security, observability, and uptime
• Technical Debt and Refactoring – Approach to managing and improving code over time
• Compliance and Certifications – Known issues and regulatory requirements (e.g., SOC2, GDPR)
• Performance Metrics – Reports like scale tests, coverage, and code complexity

Business Use Cases

• M&A Technology Evaluation – Helps acquirers evaluate the software’s long-term viability, scalability, and maintainability
• VC or PE Technical Diligence – Supports investor decisions with hard data and architectural clarity
• Internal Engineering Audits – Identifies areas for architectural improvements or future investments
• Vendor and Third-Party Risk Assessments – Audits usage of external services and potential exposure
• Compliance Audits – Ensures infrastructure adheres to privacy, security, and operational standards

Why This Template is Powerful

• Architectural Transparency – Surfaces gaps, legacy components, and improvement plans
• Structured for Tech Leaders – Created to help CTOs, architects, and engineering managers collaborate easily
• Data-Driven Evaluation – Includes performance metrics and certification readiness
• Flexible and Extensible – Useful across SaaS, platforms, or product-centric companies
• Due Diligence Ready – Centralizes technical documentation in one audit-ready location

This template enables organizations to demonstrate software maturity, reduce technical risk, and accelerate diligence workflows with clarity and structure.