task-breakdown

Breaking down software architecture into executable tasks involves decomposing architecture and specifications into 1-3 day work items to enable incremental delivery. This process preserves upstream boundaries and ensures each task is independently testable and aligned with the overall design.

A work breakdown structure for vertical slices identifies work packages from architecture and API contracts, then decomposes them into small, complete tasks. Each task is implemented end-to-end within 1-3 days to provide clear progress signals and enable parallel work.

Yes, task breakdown applies to both brownfield and greenfield projects where clear task boundaries are required. It decomposes specifications into executable 1-3 day tasks while enforcing explicit done criteria and mapping dependencies.

Mapping dependencies and sequencing work requires defining done criteria for each 1-3 day task, then generating a dependency graph. This sequences work for incremental delivery and mitigates risks by ensuring tasks are independently testable.

The best way to ensure tasks take 1-3 days is to enforce a strict task size limit during work breakdown. Decomposing architecture into vertical slices with explicit done criteria guarantees each task is small, complete, and independently testable.