More quotes from Doug Lea’s Christopher Alexander: An Introduction for Object-Oriented Designers:

To match its context, a solution must be constructed along the intrinsic fractures of the problem space. This ecological perspective generates design products that are optimally adapted to the microstructure of local conditions and constraints [–––]

The goal [with the semiformal algorithmic method presented in Alexander’s Notes on the Synthesis of Form] is to mirror the micro-structure that each part in a well-adapted unselfconsciously designed system would possess.

Now for some random quotes (still from this article) about what patterns are:

Many patterns are unashamedly “recipes”, mirroring the “unselfconscious” procedures characteristic of traditional methodless construction. [–––] Each pattern identifies a solution space containing an invariant that minimizes conflict among forces and constraints. [–––] Patterns represent abstractions of empirical experience and everyday knowledge. [–––] Most patterns are both upwardly and downwardly composible.

Here are some quotes about process:

Development is a social process. Participation from all levels (users, policy-makers, etc.) is required for decisions affecting multiple parts or users, as well as those concering future growth and evolution. [–––] Even if the design participants are not the permanent, ultimate users, participation by someone impacted by the artifact is better than the alternative. [–––] Architects must sometimes be builders, and vice versa. […] Imtimacy with all aspects of an effort allows the builder-architect to firsthand discover constraints, needs and desires. [–––] Construction proceeds in an order governed by pattern interdependencies, the continuous analysis and repair of failures.

The following makes you think about what a pattern-oriented programming language would be like: “since patterns can describe concepts and structures […] that are not themselves objects, the term pattern may be more fitting than class”. Got to go.