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A '''design pattern''' in architecture and [[computer science]] is a formal way of documenting a solution to a [[design problem]]..

== Description ==

The idea was introduced by the architect [[Christopher Alexander]] in the field of architecture, and has been adapted for various other disciplines, including computer science.

An organized collection of design patterns that relate to a particular field is called a [[pattern language]].

<blockquote>The elements of this language are entities called patterns. Each pattern describes a problem that occurs over and over again in our environment, and then describes the core of the solution to that problem, in such a way that you can use this solution a million times over, without ever doing it the same way twice. — Christopher Alexander</blockquote>

The usefulness of speaking of patterns is to have a common terminology for discussing the situations designers already see over and over.

Design patterns are used in many fields.  

Some design patterns may extend across multiple fields.  TO DO:  investigate Design pattern cross-disciplinary theory

== See also ==

* [[Design]]
* [[Pattern]]
* [[Pattern language]]
* [[Pattern matching]]
* [[Pattern recognition]]
* [[Problem solving]]
* [[Software design pattern]]
* [[Structure]]

== External links ==

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design_pattern Design pattern] @ Wikipedia