permodule

Permodule is a term used to describe an approach to system design in which functionality is partitioned into self-contained units called modules, with emphasis on per-module independence and configurability. The term is not widely standardized and can have different emphases depending on domain, but it generally refers to modular design at the granularity of single modules rather than larger subsystems.

In software engineering, permodule emphasizes encapsulation of state and behavior within individual modules, explicit module interfaces, and per-module lifecycle management. Modules can be developed, tested, deployed, and updated independently, and configuration can be applied at the module level rather than the system as a whole. This approach facilitates plug-in architectures, hot-swapping, and reuse across projects.

In hardware, permodule can describe a device built from interchangeable units or plug-in modules, each providing a defined subset of the device's capabilities. This enables customization and repairability, as faulty modules can be replaced without replacing the whole system.

Advantages include improved maintainability, scalability, fault isolation, and parallel development. Challenges involve designing stable per-module interfaces, managing dependencies between modules, potential overhead in wiring or orchestration, and ensuring compatibility across module versions.

Context and examples vary, including modular software frameworks, plugin systems, and modular hardware ecosystems such as modular instruments or educational kits. The term is best understood relative to concepts such as modular programming, plugin architectures, and component-based design.