Chapter 4. Incremental Architecture

The place of architecture in the software design process is one of the most hotly debated subjects in computer science today. Some argue that architecture should be defined and validated before development starts, while others argue that it should evolve as the code is written. In this chapter we discuss the concept of incrementally delivered architecture as a tool for optimizing the returns of a software development project, treating architecture as a critical part of the value creation process. IFM principles are then applied to compare the financial benefits of up-front versus evolutionary architecture.

The Place of Architecture

Few if any subjects in the field of software methodology have stirred up as much ...

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