So I've been learning about architectural styles and patterns. From what I can see, when it comes to 3-tier architecture, most people are using a pattern (such as MVC for example). But my question is, does anyone just use a plain old 3-tiered, bi-directional architecture without any patterns? Is that practiced or even acceptable in industry?
The Architecture should
Form Consistent
layers, as described in the Code Complete, 2nd Edition. Having just any of the architectural patterns and styles (MVC is actually a part of the Multitier architecture's Business tier) won't be enough. Depending from the requirements this
plain old 3-tiered bi-directional architecture
could be the best fit for a Client-server distributed system. Remember - Overdesign is bad as much as no design at all.
So as a bottom line - keeping the good practices, SOLID principles and design patterns at all levels, is what makes the good software.