backward-compatible
Works with older
Backward-compatible describes technology that works with older versions of itself or with legacy systems.
A backward-compatible game console plays titles from previous generations.
Software that's backward-compatible reads files created by earlier versions: The new format is backward-compatible with documents from the original program.
The term often appears in discussions of upgrades and standards.
Sequence of version improvements
- transitionChange from one state
- legacy systemsOutdated but essential technology
- data conversionChanging information structure
- phased rolloutGradual, sequenced implementation
coexistence · fallback · deprecation · adapters · wrappers · shims · bridges · emulation
Cross-platform functional harmony
- legacy supportMaintaining older system functionality
- integrationCombining into a whole
- file formatData organization specification
- data exchangeTransmission of information between parties
plug-and-play · seamless · cross-platform · extensibility · graceful degradation
Pieces sewn over holes
- updatesNewly provided information
- bug fixesCorrections to program errors
- versioningTracking successive iterations
- changelogRecord of project updates
stability · reliability · documentation · maintainability · technical debt · refactoring · hotfix
upgrade path
Sequence of version improvements
- transitionChange from one state
- legacy systemsOutdated but essential technology
- data conversionChanging information structure
phased rollout · coexistence · fallback · deprecation · adapters · wrappers · shims · bridges · emulation
interoperability
Cross-platform functional harmony
- legacy supportMaintaining older system functionality
- integrationCombining into a whole
- file formatData organization specification
data exchange · plug-and-play · seamless · cross-platform · extensibility · graceful degradation
patches
Pieces sewn over holes
- updatesNewly provided information
- bug fixesCorrections to program errors
- versioningTracking successive iterations
changelog · stability · reliability · documentation · maintainability · technical debt · refactoring · hotfix
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