Keep your software healthy with refactoring

In the fast-paced world of software development, delivering value quickly is essential. At 1xINTERNET, we are proud of creating solutions that meet our clients' immediate needs through our MVP (Minimum Viable Product) approach. However, there's an important behind-the-scenes process that ensures your software remains effective, secure, and adaptable over time: refactoring.

What is refactoring?

When we talk about refactoring, we're referring to a comprehensive process that goes beyond the classical definition of just restructuring code. Our approach to refactoring includes:

1. Code restructuring: Improving the internal structure and design of the software while preserving its core functionality from the user's perspective.
2. Dependency updates: Installing the latest versions of all underlying libraries and packages, which often brings new features, improved user interfaces, and performance enhancements.
3. Technology modernization: Adopting current best practices and technologies that make your software more efficient, secure, and maintainable.

This broader definition of refactoring doesn't just maintain your software, instead it actively improves it. Your applications become faster, more responsive, and you gain new capabilities even when no new business features are explicitly requested.

Most importantly, refactoring makes future development much more efficient. We keep all components up-to-date so we can implement new features faster without outdated dependencies holding us back.

Why your software needs periodic refactoring

As your business partner in software development, we want to explain why we periodically recommend refactoring projects we've built for you:

1. The MVP approach demands it

Our MVP approach allows us to deliver valuable features quickly. We focus on building what you need right now, getting it into your hands, and then gathering feedback. This approach has clear benefits:

• You see results faster
• We can respond to market changes quickly
• Your investment starts generating returns sooner

However, we intentionally address certain system considerations later. As your software evolves, we need to periodically review the entire system and bring everything up to current standards.

2. The Drupal ecosystem is constantly evolving

At 1xINTERNET, most of our projects are built on Drupal, an open source content management system where we are an active community member and contributor. This deep involvement in the Drupal ecosystem gives us unique insights into emerging innovations and best practices.

The Drupal community continuously develops new modules, features, and improvements. Our periodic refactoring process allows us to:

• Integrate improved versions of Drupal core and modules with new features and capabilities
• Ensure your software benefits from community-driven advancements
• Unlock new UI improvements and performance optimizations from updated Drupal modules
• Apply our insider knowledge to implement the most effective solutions

3. Drupal modules and external libraries require maintenance

Modern software relies on numerous Drupal modules and external libraries that handle specialized functions. These components receive regular updates, including:

• Security patches
• Bug fixes
• Performance improvements
• New capabilities and features
• UI enhancements and modernizations

While we always apply critical security updates immediately, comprehensive module and library updates require careful integration. Our periodic refactoring sessions allow us to update all dependencies (both Drupal modules and external libraries) ensuring they work harmoniously together while bringing new benefits to your software.

4. Periodic refactoring is more efficient than continuous refactoring

We've found that dedicated refactoring periods are more efficient than trying to refactor continuously. This approach allows us to:

• Take a holistic view of the entire system
• Make coordinated changes across components
• Update multiple interdependent modules simultaneously
• Thoroughly test all interactions with new versions
• Minimize disruption to your business operations

Our commitment to value

Our MVP approach ensures you receive the highest possible value when we initially create your software. We deliver the features you need most, as quickly as possible.

Periodic refactoring maintains our high speed of value creation while continuously improving your software. Through regular refactoring, we:

• Reduce long-term costs by preventing the need for major, expensive overhauls that become necessary when software is neglected.
• Enable faster future development by building on top of modern, well-maintained foundations rather than wrestling with outdated technologies.

This approach keeps your applications healthy, adaptable, and aligned with your evolving business needs.

When we recommend a refactoring phase, it's because we're committed to the long-term success of your software and your business.

Would you like to learn more about our development process or discuss a refactoring plan for your software? Contact us today for a consultation.