Last updated on Jun 21, 2024

What are the best practices for documenting your tech stack?

A tech stack is the combination of software, tools, frameworks, languages, and platforms that you use to build, run, and maintain your applications. It's a crucial part of your technology recruitment process, as it reflects your technical capabilities, preferences, and culture. But how do you document your tech stack effectively, so that you can attract, evaluate, and retain the best talent for your projects? Here are some best practices to follow.

1 Define your tech stack clearly

The first step is to define your tech stack clearly and consistently. This means identifying the main components of your stack, such as the front-end, back-end, database, cloud services, testing tools, and so on. You should also explain the purpose and benefits of each component, and how they interact with each other. For example, you could use a diagram or a table to show the architecture and dependencies of your stack. You should also use the official names and versions of the technologies you use, and avoid using vague or generic terms.

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Arvind S.

Security Researcher | Empowering Digital Security | Serial Entrepreneur
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Start by clearly defining the components of your tech stack, including programming languages, frameworks, databases, and infrastructure. Create a comprehensive list of all technologies used in your projects, along with their versions and dependencies.

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ievgen nuzhnov

Talent @ Samsara
(edited)
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for effective tech stack documentation, I would suggest: - collecting all information in one place. - clearly describe each component. - document versions. - use diagrams for architecture. - provide clear setup instructions. - outline coding standards. - regularly update documentation.

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2 Update your tech stack regularly

The second step is to update your tech stack regularly, as technologies evolve and change over time. You don't want to present an outdated or inaccurate picture of your stack, as this could mislead or discourage potential candidates. You should also highlight any new or emerging technologies that you are experimenting with, learning, or adopting, as this could show your innovation and curiosity. For example, you could use a changelog or a timeline to show the history and evolution of your stack, and the reasons behind your choices.

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Teresa Salazar García-Rosales

IT Talent Acquisition Specialist / International Tech Recruiter
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Most tech candidates are very motivated by the opportunity to work on the latest technology. Updating your tech stack is important to continue to be an attractive company to work for.

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Arvind S.

Security Researcher | Empowering Digital Security | Serial Entrepreneur
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Tech stacks evolve over time as new technologies emerge and existing ones are updated. Ensure that your documentation is up to date with the latest information about your tech stack. Regularly review and update your documentation to reflect any changes or additions to your stack.

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3 Showcase your tech stack creatively

The third step is to showcase your tech stack creatively, so that you can stand out from the crowd and attract attention. You should not only document your tech stack in a formal way, but also in a fun and engaging way. For example, you could use a logo, a slogan, a mascot, a video, a quiz, or a game to represent your stack, and show your personality and culture. You could also use testimonials, stories, or case studies to demonstrate the impact and value of your stack, and how it solves real-world problems.

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Arvind S.

Security Researcher | Empowering Digital Security | Serial Entrepreneur
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Use creative and visually appealing formats to showcase your tech stack. Consider using diagrams, charts, or infographics to represent the different components of your stack and their relationships. This can help team members and stakeholders better understand your tech stack architecture.

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Teresa Salazar García-Rosales

IT Talent Acquisition Specialist / International Tech Recruiter
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Tu stack técnico debería aparecer en la página web y, sobre todo, en las ofertas de trabajo. De esta forma atraerás a aquellas personas que estén interesadas trabajar con estas tecnologías.

Translated

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4 Share your tech stack publicly

The fourth step is to share your tech stack publicly, so that you can reach a wider audience and generate interest. You should not only document your tech stack internally, but also externally, on platforms where potential candidates can find you. For example, you could use your website, blog, social media, portfolio, podcast, or newsletter to showcase your tech stack, and invite feedback and questions. You could also use platforms like StackShare, GitHub, or Tech Stack Hunt to compare and discover other tech stacks, and join communities and discussions.

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Arvind S.

Security Researcher | Empowering Digital Security | Serial Entrepreneur
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Make your tech stack documentation accessible to external stakeholders, such as clients, partners, and the broader tech community. Share your tech stack on your company website or through other channels to showcase your expertise and attract potential collaborators.

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5 Align your tech stack with your goals

The fifth step is to align your tech stack with your goals, so that you can communicate your vision and direction. You should not only document your tech stack as it is, but also as it will be, or as you want it to be. For example, you could use a roadmap, a strategy, a wishlist, or a challenge to show your future plans and aspirations for your stack, and how they relate to your business and technical objectives. You should also explain how your tech stack supports your values and principles, and how it reflects your culture and identity.

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Arvind S.

Security Researcher | Empowering Digital Security | Serial Entrepreneur
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Ensure that your tech stack aligns with your business goals and objectives. Choose technologies that support your long-term vision and are scalable, secure, and cost-effective. Regularly reassess your tech stack to ensure that it continues to meet your evolving needs.

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6 Use your tech stack as a tool

The sixth and final step is to use your tech stack as a tool, not as an end in itself. You should not only document your tech stack for the sake of it, but also for a specific purpose and audience. For example, you could use your tech stack to attract, evaluate, and retain talent, by tailoring it to their needs and expectations. You could also use your tech stack to improve, optimize, and innovate your applications, by learning from it and adapting it. You should also use your tech stack to collaborate, communicate, and celebrate with your team, by sharing it and acknowledging it.

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Arvind S.

Security Researcher | Empowering Digital Security | Serial Entrepreneur
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Your tech stack documentation should not just be a static document but a dynamic tool that helps you make informed decisions. Use your tech stack documentation to evaluate new technologies, plan future projects, and troubleshoot issues.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Arvind S.

Security Researcher | Empowering Digital Security | Serial Entrepreneur
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Consider incorporating best practices for security, scalability, and performance into your tech stack documentation. Documenting these aspects of your tech stack can help you ensure that your applications are secure, scalable, and performant.

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What are the best practices for documenting your tech stack?

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1 Define your tech stack clearly

2 Update your tech stack regularly

3 Showcase your tech stack creatively

4 Share your tech stack publicly

5 Align your tech stack with your goals

6 Use your tech stack as a tool

7 Here’s what else to consider

Technology Recruitment

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