Monolithic to Microservices Architecture - A Framework for Design and Implementation

Abstract

Systems for scalable and reliable software applications can be realised only after a thorough consideration of the design and architecture of the underlying components. The ubiquitous use of distributed architecture to design and implement building applications serves as an impetus to delve into analysing various architectural models such as monoliths and microservices. Through the design and implementation of a modern banking system, this research paper makes a comprehensive analysis of the different aspects of monolithic and microservice architectures. The paper highlights various logistical concerns and strategies - from discussing database patterns and communication strategies to deployment methods. The paper also outlines a step-wise, algorithmic approach to aid software engineering practitioners in migrating from a monolith to a microservice. The aforementioned approach was implemented in developing the banking application, and the result was a modular, functional and scalable microservice system. The quantitative and qualitative analysis of the results were encouraging, which attests to the feasibility of the proposed methodology.