Monolithiclike

Monolithiclike is a term used to describe systems or architectures that exhibit characteristics similar to monolithic applications but are not strictly so. This often refers to applications that are developed and deployed as a single, unified unit, much like a traditional monolith, but may incorporate some degree of modularity or internal decomposition. The key aspect of monolithiclike systems is that they are managed and deployed as a whole, presenting a unified interface and operational footprint.

These systems may be built with multiple internal components or services that are tightly coupled and communicate via in-process calls rather than network-based communication. While they might appear as a single deployable artifact, there can be internal boundaries that facilitate development and maintenance to a limited extent. The goal is often to retain the perceived simplicity of a monolith in terms of deployment and management, while still allowing for some level of internal organization.

Monolithiclike architectures can arise when teams try to introduce modularity into a monolith without fully embracing a microservices approach. They might leverage internal libraries or modules that are developed and versioned together. The advantages can include easier initial development and testing compared to highly distributed systems, while the disadvantages often mirror those of traditional monoliths, such as potential for slower release cycles and difficulty in scaling individual components independently. The term is often used in contrast to more granular architectural styles like microservices.