This paper describes the results of the action research project' Gordian', which studied some measures to be taken in order to facilitate controlled growth of a software product. Technical decoupling prevents the consequences of three identified types of integrations, and it streamlines the integrations between packages. Conceptual decoupling prevents violations of the integrity of the data. Since the outcome of technical and conceptual decoupling is a static picture of the system, the dynamic element of the development process is addressed by means of organisational measures.
software development, decoupling, controlled growth, Gordian project
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