Software Architecture on Eifel42

Developer Summit 2025: Insights from Berlin

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Insights from Developer Summit 2025 in Berlin: DDD, legacy modernization, responsible architecture and AI.

Blockchain: A Trusted Database for Systems Boundaries

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Software Architecture analysis of blockchain technology for enterprise systems. Business analysis perspective on DLT implementation by Stefan Zils, Eifel42.dev

Arc42 by Example

Sun, 02 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Arc42 software architecture documentation framework review by Stefan Zils, Software Architect at Eifel42.dev. Essential for enterprise architecture and requirements analysis.

Star Notary Services Arc42

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Star Notary Service allows you to create stars with coordinates in the Ethereum Blockchain to save. Arc42 (DE) documentation.

Data in Motion Day 2024

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 22:50:55 +0200

I had the opportunity to participate in Data in Motion Day 2024 in Frankfurt, analyzing stream processing from a business analysis and enterprise architecture perspective.

One of my primary takeaways is that stream processing extends beyond mere software frameworks and data management. It encourages a more profound comprehension of business operations and their specific domains. This understanding is essential for requirements analysis and leveraging data in real-time to drive strategic decision-making.

Data in Motion 2024, Ticket

Forgotten Knowledge

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 20:21:43 +0100

Software architecture documentation importance analyzed through historical perspective. Business analysis of knowledge preservation by Stefan Zils.

Javaland 2024, Nürburgring

Sat, 25 May 2024 21:21:42 +0100

A Java Software Development Conference

Javaland Nürburgring (Eifel), 2024

In April, the German Java conference took place at the Nürburgring. It was a new and great experience. It was the first time that I did not have to plan a trip to learn about on-site software development.

It’s amazing how life can come full circle. When I was a student, I used to listen to rock music at the Rock am Ring festival. Now, I find myself in the audience at the top of the software development scene.

After a month of deep reflection and revisiting the recorded sessions, a significant trend in enterprise software development emerged:

Domain Driven Design

I enjoyed the talks about Domain-Driven Design (DDD) architecture and business views, the discussions about exemplary architecture, and the thinking in the modules. Since I read Eric Evans’s Blue Book for the first time, Domain-Driven-Design has become the de facto standard for mapping business needs into modern architectures.

Behavior-Driven-Design (BDD) is a theoretical concept for me and a practical tool I regularly incorporate into my work.

Like every methodology, both approaches have a tradeoff between technology, business needs and values, and costs.

Event Sourcing

The talks about event sourcing, particularly Kafka, were overcrowded. I like the ideas for event sourcing and stream processing considerably (Apache Kafka, Apache ksqlDB, Apache Flink, etc.). However, using it in a productive environment still has a high learning curve and significantly influences the software architecture.

Green Software Development

Green software development is not just a trend, but a necessity in the face of increasing energy consumption from technologies like cloud computing and AI systems. By prioritizing energy efficiency, we can ensure that energy savings become a cornerstone in developing software systems, such as microservices running in the cloud, thereby contributing to a more sustainable and cost-effective future.

Generative AI

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

I want to end the year with an article on generative AI (genAI). Although the algorithms and methods are already decades old, 2023 is when the impressive possibilities have reached the masses.

Spreadsheets and calculators have revolutionized the work of accounting and finance departments. AI will fundamentally change knowledge work. The possibilities offered by artificial intelligence are enriching and liberating. In the field of software development, AI assistants (Github Copilot, JetBrains AI Assistant, etc.) will free us from tedious routine tasks and help us to write better software (technical debt) and secure code (security vulnerabilities).

In software development, knowledge of the business domain, the possibility of software architectures, soft skills, and business analysis methodologies will become even more critical.

To show the possibilities and limitations of AI tools, I asked Google Bard, Microsoft Copilot, and OpenAI ChatGPT to create a blog about Oswald Ungers. Oswald Ungers was an architect from my hometown, Kaisersesch. He is known as a hidden champion in both the USA and Germany. He is unknown in Kaisersesch itself.

The first test’s impressive results clearly showed that Kaisersesch is not widely appearing in public sources. It led to significant detail errors in the generated blogs.

Please decide for yourself!

Sections

The test consists of five parts. Please consider that Google Bard is in the experimental phase, Microsoft Copilot is at the beginning, and it uses the free version of ChatGPT 3.5.

Part I contains three blogs created with the AI mentioned above assistants. Each AI assistant answered the same question:

Please write a blog about Oswald Ungers and the influences from his hometown. Consider his influences on modern architecture and his professorships.

The first test showed that all AI models needed in-depth knowledge of Kaisersesch. As a result of this, I asked:

Please generate a blog about the history of Kaisersesch and its architecture.

Part I-GenAI (Oswald Ungers)

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Use Case

Where are you from? We hear this question often, every day. I usually answer the question with the close cities of Koblenz (Rhine), the Roman city of Trier or the Nürburgring, the vulcano lakes (Maare), the picturesque castles or places in the Eifel and the Moselle (e.g., Eltz Castle, Beilstein, Cochem, Monreal, etc.).

As a software architect, I refer to Oswald Ungers, an architect born in my hometown, Kaisersesch. Oswald Ungers influences modern architecture. Known buildings are the Alfred-Wegener-Institut in Kiel and the Messe Torhaus in Frankfurt.

Oswald Ungers is known a little; he is suitable as a test for generative AI. I asked Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT 3.5, and Google Bard to create a blog.

Test Question

Please write a blog about Oswald Ungers and the influences from his hometown. Consider his influences on modern architecture and his professorships.

ChatGPT 3.5

Oswald Mathias Ungers, an icon in modern architecture, was profoundly shaped by the influences of his hometown and his academic roles. Born in Kaisersesch, Germany, in 1926, Ungers’ architectural journey was a fusion of his formative experiences in Kaisersesch and the profound impact of his academic tenures. Let’s explore the symbiotic relationship between Ungers’ hometown influences, his contributions to modern architecture, and his influential roles as an educator.

Kaisersesch: A Crucible of Inspiration

Cultural Heritage and Architectural Context

Kaisersesch, nestled in the idyllic Rhineland-Palatinate, served as an early architectural canvas for Ungers. The town’s heritage, steeped in historical architecture and regional aesthetics, likely instilled in him an appreciation for context, form, and structure. The timber-framed houses and the picturesque landscapes might have laid the groundwork for his design sensibilities.

Nature’s Influence

The serene landscapes of the Eifel region, with their rolling hills and verdant panoramas, possibly fostered Ungers’ deep connection between architecture and the natural environment. This communion between built structures and the surrounding landscape became a recurring theme in his designs.

Part II-GenAI (ChatGPT 3.5)

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Question

Please generate a blog about the history of Kaisersesch and its architecture.

ChatGPT 3.5

Unveiling the Timeless Beauty: A Journey Through Kaisersesch’s Architectural Heritage

Nestled within the serene landscapes of the Eifel region in Germany lies the picturesque town of Kaisersesch, a place steeped in rich history and adorned with an architectural tapestry that speaks volumes about its past. This quaint town, with its cobblestone streets and historical edifices, serves as a living testament to a bygone era.

A Glimpse into the Past

Kaisersesch, with its origins dating back to Roman times, has traversed through the epochs of history, witnessing the rise and fall of empires, wars, and societal transformations. Its name itself, “Kaisersesch,” derives from the Latin “Civitas Cesarea,” signifying its imperial past. The town’s story can be traced to the medieval ages when it was granted city rights, marking the beginning of its development. Throughout centuries, it flourished as a center of trade and craftsmanship, leaving behind a legacy that echoes through its architecture.

Architectural Marvels

St. Martin’s Church

At the heart of Kaisersesch stands St. Martin’s Church, a breathtaking architectural masterpiece that stands as a testament to the town’s spiritual heritage. This towering structure, with its Gothic elements and intricate details, captivates visitors, offering a glimpse into the town’s religious fervor and architectural prowess of the time.

Half-Timbered Houses

Wandering through the town’s streets, one encounters a charming array of half-timbered houses adorned with vibrant colors and ornate facades. These houses, with their timber frames and intricate designs, showcase the craftsmanship and skill of artisans from centuries past. Each beam tells a story, preserving the essence of Kaisersesch’s cultural heritage.

Medieval Gates and Walls

Remnants of the town’s defensive walls and gates harken back to an era of fortified towns and strategic defenses. The Eigelbtor (Egg-Yolk Gate) and other remaining sections of the town’s walls serve as silent witnesses to the town’s history, evoking a sense of nostalgia and fascination among visitors.

Part III-GenAI (Google Bard)

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Please consider that Google Bard is in the experimental phase! Google Bard always generates three proposals.

Question

Please generate a blog about the history of Kaisersesch and its architecture.

Proposal I

Kaisersesch: A Journey Through Time and Architecture Nestled amidst the picturesque Moselle Valley in Western Germany, Kaisersesch is a charming town steeped in rich history and captivating architecture. Its name, meaning “Emperor’s Rock,” pays homage to its strategic location along the Roman Limes, an ancient fortified border that once protected the Roman Empire from Germanic tribes.

The Roman Era: A Legacy of Fortifications Kaisersesch’s Roman heritage is evident in the ruins of the Kaiserstadt, a fortified settlement that once served as a crucial outpost for the Roman army. The remains of a gatehouse, towers, and ramparts stand as silent sentinels of the town’s past, offering a glimpse into the bustling life of this once-thriving Roman garrison.

The Middle Ages: A Tapestry of Churches and Castles As the Roman Empire waned, Kaisersesch entered the Middle Ages, a period marked by the construction of imposing castles and grand churches. The imposing ruins of Castle Pyrmont, perched atop a hill overlooking the town, once served as a stronghold for the Counts of Sayn. Nearby, the Collegiate Church of St. Martin, a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture, stands as a testament to the town’s spiritual heritage.

The Renaissance and Baroque Eras: A Flourishing of Art and Culture The Renaissance and Baroque eras brought a surge of artistic and architectural brilliance to Kaisersesch. The town’s streets were adorned with ornate fountains, graceful half-timbered houses, and majestic townhouses. The Renaissance-style Town Hall, with its intricate carvings and arched windows, stands as a symbol of this flourishing period.

The Industrial Age: A Transformation into a Thriving Town The 19th century marked a turning point for Kaisersesch, as it embraced the Industrial Revolution. The town’s strategic location along the railway network and the development of industries such as textiles and papermaking transformed it into a bustling commercial center. This period saw the construction of impressive factories, warehouses, and railway stations, further shaping the town’s urban landscape.

Part IV-GenAI (Microsoft Copilot)

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Please consider that Microsoft Copilot is at the beginning. I used the Microsoft Copliot with maximum accuracy.

Question

Please generate a blog about the history of Kaisersesch and its architecture.

The History and Architecture of Kaisersesch

A Glimpse into the Past

Kaisersesch, a town located in the Cochem-Zell district in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric and Roman times¹². The town was once a crossroads in these ancient times, and evidence of a Roman presence has been unearthed in the form of a gravesite and a water supply line¹.

In the Early Middle Ages, the town, then known as Asche, was among the Lotharingian county palatine’s holdings¹. Between 1051 and 1056, the town, now known as Esch, was first mentioned in donation documents².

Esch was a court centre in the Electorate of Trier beginning in 1294². In 1320, it was heavily fortified, and the following year, it was granted town rights by King Louis the Bavarian¹. Thereafter, the town was known as Kaisersesch, which translates to “Emperor’s Esch"¹.

Times of Turmoil

The town faced significant destruction during the Nine Years’ War in 1689 when it was almost completely destroyed by the French¹². In 1794, Kaisersesch came under French rule, during which it was stripped of its town rights¹.

In 1815, the town was assigned to the Kingdom of Prussia at the Congress of Vienna¹². Since 1946, Kaisersesch has been part of the newly founded state of Rhineland-Palatinate¹². On 22 November 1997, Kaisersesch was granted town rights once again¹.

Architecture and Landmarks

While specific architectural details of Kaisersesch are not readily available, the town’s history suggests a blend of architectural styles influenced by its past. The fortifications from the 14th century would have left their mark on the town’s layout and structures. The destruction during the Nine Years’ War and subsequent rebuilding likely introduced new architectural elements.

Part V-GenAI Comments

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

In Part I, Google Bard describes Kaisersesch as a romantic medieval town. Kaisersesch itself was not such a place in the 1930s. The French king Louis XIV’s army destroyed Kaisersesch during the Palatinate War of Succession.

In the 1920s and 1930s, the Alte Schule, school from the Prussian era, the official buildings, the railroad station, and a few Wilhelminian-style villas dominated the town. Otherwise, Kaisersesch was more agricultural at this time. Most of the houses were farmsteads, the so-called Trierer Haus. Unger’s way to school may have inspired him more. Moneral is still a Sleeping Beauty in the Elz Valley today.

Facts

Kaisersesch itself has no Roman buldings. There were Roman tombs and a Roman Vila in the surrounding area. The highest point of the Roman road between Trier and Andernach ran through Kaisersesch.
The Eifel Aqueducts ran through the northern Eifel to Cologne. Microsoft Copolit references the English Wiki-Kaisersesch regarding the water supply.
There was no Limes in Kaisersesch. The Roman Limes was on the other Rhine side (70 - 90 kilometers away).
Esch is a Franconian term and means slash-and-burn. The second largest town in Luxembourg, Esch/Alzette, has a similar origin.
The German King and Emperor Ludwig IV (Ludovicus Bavarus) granted Esch town rights in 1321 AD. Since that date, the new town’s name was Kaisersesch.
Due to the plague, the Thirty Years’ War and the destruction in the Palatinate War of Succession, Kaisersesch has no medieval old town. Only a tower (Alte Turm) of the town wall bears witness to its medieval past.
There was no Renaissance Architecture in the dark times of plagues, wars, and destruction.
Kaisersesch has no castle and was subject to the administration of the prince-electors in Trier.
The castle of Pyrmont is ten kilometers away and had no influence on the history of Kaisersesch.
Kaisersesch has a church dating from 1898 to 1900, and its patron saint is St. Pankratius. There is also the older forest chapel (Waldkapelle).
There is no river in the direct area of Kaisersesch. The Moselle is about 15 kilometers away. The river Kyll is about 100 kilometers away and close to Trier.

It seems to me that some AI Models mix up the history of Trier and Mainz with Kaisersesch.

Microservices Basics

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Microservices architecture basics guide by Stefan Zils, Software Architect. Enterprise architecture patterns for scalable business applications.