Compatibility

All software systems developed under DIT must maintain backward compatibility by default. Every new version must continue to function correctly with:

• existing integrations,
• existing APIs and clients,
• existing data structures and schemas, and
• previously released configurations or workflows.

When backward compatibility cannot be preserved—whether due to technical limitations, architectural changes, or design decisions—the change must:

1. be fully justified,
2. be documented with impact analysis, and
3. receive prior written approval from the Head of Digital Development.

Any backward-incompatible change introduced without explicit approval will be treated as a defect and must be corrected immediately.