Force of Entropy

Abstract

Entropy is a concept from thermodynamics: It measures the disorder of a physical system. The force of entropy is the second law of thermodynamics, which states that the entropy in a closed system increases—and so does its disorder. The same can be observed in a software-system: An ideal initial software-system, i.e., having a perfect architecture and no defects, will continuously deteriorate due to the evolution activities. Adaptive and corrective maintenance will gradually introduce technical debt and architecture erosion into the system. The software-system thus becomes harder and harder to extend and is difficult to maintain. In order to maintain the viability of a software-system, the force of entropy must actively and consequently be resisted. The means to do so are first the strict adherence to proven architecture principles and patterns to avoid architecture erosion and the generation of technical debt. Second, periodic rearchitecture programs to restore an adequate architecture and to eliminate technical debt must be carried out