**Pattern Name:**
System of Patterns
Commonly called Pattern Language.
**Introduction:**
Action occurs in context. Patterns are purposefully and artfully underspecified so that they require and allow fitting to contexts. No two patterns will be identically specified/situated.
The relationships between patterns (becoming systems of patterns) also exist in contexts. They are underspecified and must be connected depending on local contexts. No two systems of patterns will be identically specified.
**Illustration:**
One Pattern in the context of supporting and supported patterns from A Pattern Language, Christopher Alexander.
**CONTEXT:**
Some sequences make no sense--will not work. Other sequences are optional, workable, and allow for many contingencies.
**Initial Situation:**
You have implemented one or more patterns and are looking for what to do next.
**PROBLEM:** There are an infinite number of choices. There is limited local experience in designing at the neighborhood level.
**Forces:**
Inexperience.
Conflicting opinions.
Documented workable relationships among patterns.
**THEREFORE (SOLUTION):**
Review known workable relationships among patterns. Choose from those. Add to the repository of patterns and successful pattern interactions.
**Actions:**
For the build environment review A Pattern Language and the New Pattern Language.
Search for your patterns in ReLocalize Creativity, looking at the CONNECTED PATTERNS section for adjacent patterns.
**Consequences:**
Easier agreement, quicker progress, shared practical learning.
**Known Uses:**
Christopher Alexander's A Pattern Language.
**Examples:**
**Important Know-How:**
**Notes:**
Work with Ward Cunningham to create a searchable database of connected patterns.
Note common patterns that this pattern is
**CONNECTED PATTERNS:** **Supported Patterns:** **Supporting Patterns:**
strict digraph {rankdir=TB node [shape=box style=filled fillcolor=bisque] "INDEX"-> "Emancipation"-> "System of Patterns"-> "Cave Drawing Sketch"-> "Campfire Conversation"-> "BIP Model"-> "Situated Institutions"-> "BIP Sketch"-> "Six Questions Exercise"-> "CLD Sketch"-> "VSM Sketch"-> "SOFI-VSM Sketch"-> "N-Syn Model"-> "Pattern Exercise"-> "Reflection" }