Context Diagram Generator Prompt Description

Purpose

The Context Diagram Generator prompt helps systematically create comprehensive system context diagrams following C4 Model Level 1 principles. It produces visual representations that clearly show system boundaries, external entities, people, and data flows, serving as a foundation for architecture communication and system understanding.

When to Use

  • Starting architectural documentation for a new system
  • Creating arc42 Chapter 3 (System Scope and Context) documentation
  • Communicating system boundaries to stakeholders
  • Onboarding new team members to understand system ecosystem
  • Planning system integrations and dependencies
  • Conducting architecture reviews and assessments
  • Documenting existing systems for modernization projects
  • Supporting compliance and audit requirements

What It Produces

  • High-Level Context Diagram: Clean C4 Level 1 system context view
  • Detailed Context Diagram: Comprehensive view with all external entities
  • Stakeholder Analysis Table: Detailed breakdown of people and their roles
  • External Systems Matrix: Integration patterns and communication details
  • Business Process Context: Sequence diagrams showing key workflows
  • Technical Architecture Context: Protocols, formats, and technical requirements
  • Multiple Specialized Views: Security, data, business process, and deployment perspectives

Key Benefits

  • C4 Model Compliance: Follows established architecture visualization standards
  • Systematic Approach: 6-step process ensures comprehensive coverage
  • Multiple Perspectives: Business, technical, security, and data views
  • Integration Planning: Clear understanding of external dependencies
  • Stakeholder Communication: Visual format accessible to non-technical audiences
  • Documentation Foundation: Provides basis for detailed architecture documentation

Integration with arc42

This prompt directly supports several arc42 chapters: - Chapter 3 (System Scope and Context): Primary focus with both business and technical context - Chapter 1 (Introduction and Goals): System purpose and stakeholder identification - Chapter 2 (Architecture Constraints): External system dependencies and constraints - Chapter 8 (Cross-cutting Concepts): Integration patterns and communication protocols - Chapter 11 (Risk and Technical Debt): Dependency risks and integration complexity

The context diagrams serve as a visual anchor for architecture documentation, helping readers understand the system's place in the broader ecosystem before diving into internal architecture details.

Special Features

  • Multiple Diagram Types: High-level overview and detailed technical views
  • PlantUML C4 Integration: Uses C4-PlantUML library for consistent, professional diagrams
  • Stakeholder Mapping: Connects context diagrams to stakeholder analysis
  • Business Process Integration: Shows how technical context supports business processes
  • Evolution Planning: Considers future state and planned changes
  • Security Context: Special focus on security boundaries and trust zones