Recomposability

Recomposability is the property of a system that enables its components to be recombined in multiple configurations to achieve new functionality, without modifying the components themselves. It relies on modular design, stable interfaces, and explicit dependencies so that parts can be swapped or combined without unintended interactions.

Core prerequisites include well-defined interfaces or contracts, encapsulation of internal details, and a clear separation of concerns. Components should expose only what is necessary for interaction and rely on predictable behaviors. Standardization of interfaces and dependency management further support recomposability by reducing compatibility friction across configurations.

In software, recomposability is often achieved through modularization, libraries with stable APIs, plug-in architectures, and service-oriented or microservice designs. Examples include plugin systems that extend capabilities without altering core software, and package managers that assemble diverse components into a working application. Component-based UI frameworks and modular backends illustrate how independent parts can be recombined to form new products.

In hardware and product design, recomposability appears as modular hardware, standardized connectors, and product line architectures that allow components to be mixed and matched for different applications. This approach supports customization, easier maintenance, and scalable manufacturing.

Benefits of recomposability include greater flexibility, faster iteration, reuse of proven components, and improved resilience to change. Challenges include the overhead of standardization, versioning and compatibility management, potential performance costs from indirection, and the risk of brittle interfaces if maintained poorly.

Related concepts include modularity, composability, and interface contracts.