Refactor

Understanding the Refactor module

Refactor covers modernization-oriented transitions at high level. Unlike Relocate, Rehost, and Replatform wave delivery, modernization is typically managed as a dedicated project stream.

This module intentionally focuses on shared cross-scenario principles, not workload-specific implementation blueprints.

Why Refactor is handled as a distinct module

• Different delivery model: Refactor work follows product and architecture backlogs, not factory wave runbooks.
• Longer timeline: Modernization often spans multiple releases and capability increments.
• Higher design impact: Target architecture, data model, and integration contracts may change substantially.

Shared modernization life cycle

1. Define modernization intent, business outcomes, and architecture constraints.
2. Select candidate workloads using value, risk, and complexity criteria.
3. Establish target-state architecture and migration increments.
4. Execute iterative delivery with validation gates and release governance.
5. Transition stabilized capabilities into standard run operations.

Typical outputs

Target architecture decisions

Documented decisions for service decomposition, data ownership, and integration boundaries.

Modernization roadmap

Prioritized sequence of refactor increments aligned to business milestones.

Operating model alignment

Updated responsibilities, reliability controls, and release governance for the new architecture.

Boundary to migrate and optimize

• Refactor is not a substitute for wave delivery in Migrate.
• Optimize remains the post-cutover improvement loop for migrated workloads: Optimize.

Detailed architecture guidance is part of the Architecture Framework: /architecture/.