Patterns of Enterprise Application Architecture

This is a must read.

Regardless of the programming language or frameworks you work with, chances are you are using many of the patterns documented here.

In case you are using a 'homegrown' solution, you really *should* be using some of these architectural patterns or else your are way out of your mind! ( )

Patterns for Business Applications: I loved this book! It was exactly what I was looking for when I went searching for patterns that would help with a new business application. It provides alternative solutions to the typical implementation problems associated with business systems, both from a design standpoint and from the perspective of the implementation. The alternatives are compared and weighed in light of the execution environment and cost of implementation, with a comparison of advantages and disadvantages, along with Martin's recommendations. I had the feeling that the comparisons and recommendations were made not based purely upon a theoretical optimum, but also based upon practical and real-world experience with these patterns.

This is the definitive reference on patterns in application development. The Gang of Four book is a classic reference on patterns, but the patterns there are lower level. And they are useful, but never had as much of an impact as this book. When reading this book, I immediately recognized many of the patterns and really value having a vocabulary to talk about application design decisions. This is a must read book for advanced application developers and architects. ( )