12 Enterprise RAG Architectures, and When to Use Each One

Basic retrieval-augmented generation works well for simple prototypes, but fails in production when faced with complex documents, multi-hop queries, and enterprise access controls. This guide categorizes the 12 proven RAG patterns used in production systems.

The 12 Architectures

From Naive Vector Retrieval and Chunking Optimization to Contextual Retrieval, Multi-Query Expansion, Fusion Retrieval, GraphRAG, Agentic RAG, and Corrective RAG (CRAG).

Decision Framework

Choose your architecture based on document structure, query complexity, latency bounds, and compliance requirements.