Big Bang Rewrite
Big Bang Rewrite is a software development approach where an entire legacy system is replaced all at once with a new implementation, rather than incrementally. It involves stopping work on the old system, building the new one from scratch, and then switching over in a single, high-risk deployment. This method contrasts with incremental refactoring or strangler pattern approaches that gradually replace components.
Developers might consider a Big Bang Rewrite when a legacy system is so outdated, poorly documented, or tightly coupled that incremental changes are impractical or too costly. It's suitable for small to medium-sized systems where the team can afford a complete halt and rebuild, often to adopt modern technologies, fix architectural flaws, or meet new business requirements quickly. However, it carries high risks of failure, budget overruns, and disruption, so it should be used sparingly and with careful planning.