Modular architecture, as a software design technique, has existed for more than 73 years already. Despite it being well-established, lots of apps are built using traditional, monolithic development patterns.
In this post, we’ll delve deeper into the concept of modular architecture, review implementation details, and discover the major advantages and limitations of this software design.
What is Modular Architecture?
For starters, let’s define modular architecture:
Modular architecture is a software design approach where a system is divided into a set of smaller, independent software modules.
In contrast, traditional app design, often referred to as monolithic architecture, involves developing an application as a single, indivisible unit. You can review the visual representations of two app designs in the infographics below:
Modularity and decomposition are foundational concepts in software engineering. Let’s get an understanding of them before proceeding:
Decomposition is the process of breaking down a complex system into smaller, manageable parts, i.e., modules.
This approach follows the principles of modularity:
Modularity is when each part or software module encapsulates a specific functionality or a set of closely related functions.
Modularity, enabled by decomposition, makes the system more understandable, maintainable, and adaptable to changes over time.
Implementation of the Modular Software Design
The steps you will have to go through to implement modular software design include:
- Requirement analysis
- Modular architecture planning
- Defining interfaces
- Development of modules
- Module integration
- Testing modules
- Documentation and maintenance
As a result of the implementation process, you should have a modular software solution that can be used and maintained error-free.
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The Benefits of Modular Mobile Applications Architecture
Now, let’s get to know the main benefits that modular architecture design has to offer:
Better scalability and flexibility. Modular architecture allows for simple application extension and customization by adding or upgrading specific modules without having to rewrite the entire system.
Simplified maintenance and update. Each component in a module system is isolated, which means that updates or patches may be delivered to one module without risk of unintentionally affecting others.
Enhanced and streamlined collaboration between development teams. Multiple teams can conduct the fintech software development process in parallel on various modules using modular design without affecting the system.
High reusability potential. The modular architecture promotes reusability by allowing modules created for one project to be readily recycled or merged into other projects.
Depending on your project, you may discover other advantages of modular mobile applications architecture.
The Limitations of Modular Mobile Applications Architecture
As with all software architectural patterns, modular app design is not deprived of limitations. Here are the main considerations to keep in mind:
– Increased complexity. The proliferation of modules might create a situation in which maintaining and comprehending the linkages and dependencies becomes difficult.
– Steep learning curve and lengthy start-up period. Understanding how to successfully break down a large system into modules, create communication between them, and manage their dependencies can be difficult for new teams.
– Integration issues. While each module is designed to function independently, they must work in unison. Issues with module interfaces, data formats, communication protocols, security protocols, and technology stacks can arise when integrating modules that have been developed independently or in parallel.
– Higher investments may be needed. The initial work and cost in building a modular system, defining standards and regulations, and training all team members may be significant.
Partnering with a trusted fintech provider is one of the ways to ensure the limitations and challenges in your project are addressed.
Examples of World-Wide Known Apps that Use Modular Architecture
Here is the list of famous apps that utilize modular architecture:
- Facebook. A social networking platform that connects people worldwide.
- Uber. A ride-hailing service that connects riders with drivers.
- Instagram. A photo- and video-sharing social networking service.
- PayPal. A globally recognized digital payment platform.
- Square. A platform for payment processing solutions.
- Revolut. A global neobank that has a digital banking app.
As can be observed, modular architecture can be recommended for use in many diverse cases.
Final Take
Modular design offers a compelling mix of benefits in mobile development, most notably scalability, maintainability, and development speed. It allows for the efficient processing of complex programs by dividing them into manageable, reusable, and self-contained modules.
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