What is a pattern?
A pattern is a proven, repeatable solution to a complex challenge or problem (Alexander, 1977). According to Christopher Alexander, “Each pattern describes a problem which 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.”
Examples of patterns surround us. For example, sewing patterns are used to make a shirt more easily, while cookie cutters can be used to make beautiful delicious cookies, and a punch press can create metal parts in the same shape again and again. Patterns exist in manufacturing, building construction, toys, art and software development.
A sewing pattern to make a shirt, clothe a person
A cookie cutter are a pattern that can be used to create cookies of the same size and shape.
Sources:
1. Alexander, C., Ishikawa, S., & Silverstein, M. (1977, January 1). A Pattern Language. Oxford University Press, USA. https://a.co/d/jg8D09K