SE Principles-2024-W09-15 Software Evolution

Software Evolution

The process through which software systems adapt and progress through different stages like development, implementation, and maintenance.

Legacy System

An older software system that relies on outdated technologies and may not be suitable for new development; often presents challenges for maintenance.

Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

A process of creating or altering systems that encompasses phases such as requirement analysis, design, implementation, and maintenance.

Technical Debt

The implied cost of future reworking due to prioritizing quick fixes over sustainable long-term solutions in software development.

Change Management Process

A systematic approach to dealing with changes in a software or business environment, including change identification, analysis, implementation, and release.

Maintenance

The modification of a software program after it has been put into use, which includes fixing bugs, adapting to new environments, and enhancing functionality.

Refactoring

The process of restructuring existing computer code without changing its external behavior to improve its nonfunctional attributes.

Implementation Failure

The breakdown in the deployment of a software system, often resulting from unforeseen changes, management issues, or technical problems.

Evolutionary Development

The process by which a software system gradually evolves and improves over time in response to user feedback and changing requirements.

Deployment

The process of transitioning from an old system to a new one, including data migration and ensuring that users can effectively use the new system.

Fault Repairs (Maintenance Type)

Changing a system to fix bugs, vulnerabilities, and correct deficiencies in the way it meets its requirements.

Environmental Adaptation (Maintenance Type)

Maintenance to adapt software to a different operating environment; changing a system so that it operates in an evolving environment.

New or Changed Functionality (Maintenance Type)

Modifying the system to satisfy new requirements.

Integration Challenges

Making systems can be harder when integrating with other systems or legacy systems, which often have incompatible technologies, data formats, and processes, leading to increased complexity and potential issues during development.