From tacit knowledge to better architecture decisions

Architectural knowledge is often experience-based and poorly documented. This makes it difficult to share and reuse. This research project will develop methods to collect, structure and use this knowledge so that architecture decisions become more robust and transparent.

System architects ensure good system functionality, good interfaces and competitiveness, especially in the early development phases. Organisations are adopting digital tools to support this work, but still face barriers to effective use, particularly of AI. Using AI in design and architecture work requires trade-offs: humans contribute contextual understanding, while AI depends on precise and reliable information.

The project focuses on combining human expertise with digital assistants in work on complex systems such as autonomous drones, maritime surveillance and operational logistics. We will examine how system architects can interact with humans, digital tools and AI agents in a way that strengthens the architecture discipline of the future.

The researchers will work closely with complex technology development initiatives, in direct collaboration with partners in SFI-CELECT, including industry and government actors within maritime, aviation, manufacturing and defence.