Portabilitätsmatrix

Portabilitätsmatrix is a term used in software development and IT to describe a structured comparison of the portability of different systems, applications, or components. It is essentially a tool or a document that outlines how easily a piece of software or data can be moved from one environment to another. This movement can refer to various aspects, such as migrating from one operating system to another, moving between different cloud providers, or transitioning from an on-premises infrastructure to a cloud-based solution.

The matrix typically lists key characteristics or criteria that influence portability and then evaluates each system or component against these criteria. Common criteria include dependencies on specific hardware, operating system requirements, programming language compatibility, database dependencies, network protocols used, and data formats. Each system is then assessed on a scale, often qualitative (e.g., High, Medium, Low) or quantitative, indicating its degree of portability for each criterion.

The primary purpose of a Portabilitätsmatrix is to aid in decision-making, particularly during planning phases for system upgrades, migrations, or technology stack choices. It helps stakeholders understand the potential challenges, costs, and timelines associated with moving a system. By identifying areas of low portability early on, organizations can proactively address these issues, develop mitigation strategies, or reconsider their migration plans. This proactive approach can significantly reduce the risks and complexities associated with IT transformations.