reworks

Rework is the act of revising, redesigning, or repairing a product, component, or document after initial production or development to meet required specifications, performance criteria, or user expectations. It can apply across domains such as manufacturing, software, gaming, and publishing. Rework may be planned as part of ongoing improvement or undertaken to correct defects discovered during testing or after release.

In software development, rework refers to substantial changes to the codebase or features to fix issues, improve architecture, or adapt to new requirements. In video games, a rework is a major overhaul of a character, item, or system, altering abilities, balance, and visuals while preserving core identity.

In manufacturing and quality control, rework means performing corrective operations on defective units to bring them into specification. It is distinguished from scrap, which cannot be repaired, and from routine repair that restores function but does not necessarily meet original specs. Rework costs are tracked as part of production quality metrics, and root cause analysis seeks to reduce recurring rework.

In publishing or design, rework involves revisions to manuscripts, artwork, or layouts to address critiques or improve clarity and usability.

Common considerations include budget, scheduling, and risk of scope drift. Effective rework uses defined acceptance criteria, documentation of changes, and traceability to prevent repeated cycles and to identify underlying problems that caused the need for rework in the first place.