Over the past 20 years, Juval Löwy has led the industry in architecture and project design. Some of his ideas, such as microservices, serve as the foundation of software design and development. In this course, Löwy explains his approach to system analysis and design, using volatility to decompose a system into its comprising services. Löwy contrasts it with the most common mistake done in architecture, using functionality to identify services. This engaging course discusses both what not to do and how to correctly define the architecture of software systems. The objective is to future proof your system and make it drastically easier to develop and maintain.
System Design Fundamentals
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level
Recommended experience
5 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Learn to identify and overcome the real hurdles architects face.
Discover a structured approach for defining the components of architecture.
Future proof your system and make it easier to develop and maintain.
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Assessments
5 assignments
Taught in English
Recently updated!
September 2025
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
There is 1 module in this course
This module provides a comprehensive introduction to system design fundamentals, challenging prevailing approaches and emphasizing correct design practices. It covers the pitfalls of functional decomposition, introduces effective structures and taxonomies, and guides learners through validation, composition, and essential design attributes. Through practical techniques and insights, the module aims to transform participants’ understanding of software architecture, equipping them with the tools to create robust, adaptable systems and laying the groundwork for further exploration in project design.
What's included
27 videos5 assignments
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
Explore more from Computer Science
Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani
