Strangler Fig Pattern
The Strangler Fig Pattern is a software architecture pattern used for incrementally migrating a legacy system to a new system by gradually replacing specific pieces of functionality with new applications or services. It involves creating a new system that 'strangles' the old one over time, allowing the old system to continue running while new features are built and integrated. This approach minimizes risk and disruption by enabling a phased migration rather than a risky 'big bang' rewrite.
Developers should use this pattern when they need to modernize a large, monolithic legacy application that is difficult to maintain or scale, but cannot be replaced all at once due to business continuity requirements. It is particularly useful in scenarios where the legacy system is critical to operations, allowing teams to incrementally refactor or rebuild components while keeping the overall system functional. This pattern reduces the risk of migration failures and enables continuous delivery of new features during the transition.