Design Patterns in Software Architecture: A Critical Analysis of Their Influence on Performance and Maintainability

Alfaro Bernedo J.O.; Alfaro Bardales M.R.; Flores Sotelo W.S.; Paredes Paredes P.; Vera Tito F.S.; Gavino Ramos M.S.; Ogosi Auqui J.A. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2026) · DOI: 10.18687/laccei2026.1.1.962

Resumen

Objective: To critically analyze the influence of design patterns and architectural patterns on the performance, maintainability, and scalability of modern software systems through a systematic literature review based on PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Methods: A systematic review was conducted including studies published between 2021 and 2025 in English related to software architecture and software quality attributes. Searches were performed in indexed scientific databases using a structured keyword strategy. Studies without valid DOI, non-peer-reviewed literature, and publications unrelated to software engineering were excluded. Risk of bias was assessed through methodological criteria related to clarity, consistency, and experimental validity. Results were synthesized using qualitative thematic analysis. Results: A total of 60 primary studies were included in the final synthesis. Results revealed that microservices-based architectures, event-driven processing, CQRS/Event Sourcing, and distributed blockchain models represent the predominant approaches in modern systems. Microservices improved scalability and modularity, while CQRS and Event Sourcing enhanced traceability and separation of concerns. Likewise, blockchain architectures strengthened security and auditability through decentralized mechanisms. However, limitations associated with operational complexity, latency, and computational overhead in highly distributed architectures were also identified. Conclusions: Scientific evidence suggests that there is no universally optimal architectural pattern, since its effectiveness depends on the operational context and the quality attributes prioritized within each system. Nevertheless, decoupled architectures continue to consolidate as key solutions for improving software evolution and resilience.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal