Microkernel / Plugin Architecture
Core system exposes extension points; features are delivered as plugins loaded at runtime or build time.
What it is
A modular approach where the host provides contracts and lifecycle hooks, and plugins implement optional features independently. Resonates with OSGi/Eclipse RCP and modern modular frameworks.
Benefits
- Extensible and customizable platforms
- Isolated failure and independent delivery
- Encourages inner-source and community
Trade-offs
- Versioning and compatibility management
- Security and sandboxing of plugins
- Discovery and dependency management