Technology


WorkingMouse’s Codebots tool automates end-user documentation by linking model changes to documentation updates. It uses a higher level of abstraction and automated testing with tools like Playwright to ensure documentation stays current with system updates. The tool integrates models, tests, and documentation, streamlining updates and reducing labor, making it ideal for modernizing legacy systems.


In 2025, technology consulting will focus on structured team topologies, digital twin technology, and strong ESG priorities. Simplifying user experience, using model-driven metrics, and integrating meta and visual modeling are key trends. WorkingMouse aims to compete with major platforms through its advanced, integrated solutions. Adopting these trends will enhance efficiency and client satisfaction.


By 2028, Queensland will advance digital transformation with digital IDs, cybersecurity, and inclusive services. Key goals include addressing diverse demographic needs, leveraging emerging technologies, and enhancing service delivery. Challenges involve managing legacy systems, data sovereignty, and attracting talent. Queensland's proactive approach aims to lead in digital innovation and set a high standard for government efficiency and engagement.


Daniel Ferri of Accord Consultancy emphasizes a people-first approach in business and IT consultancy, aligning with WorkingMouse's technology-first philosophy. He advocates for balancing actual, managerial, and visionary processes, transitioning workers from process to knowledge-based roles, and clearly defining responsibilities within organizations. His insights highlight the importance of integrating people, process, and technology for effective modernization.


WM employs metamodels to streamline relationships, automate documentation, and generate code. The original ISMS metamodel managed ISO27001 but has been updated to a modular structure, allowing integration with other standards like ISO 9001. This new metamodel enhances risk management by cross-referencing common ISO models and roles. The ISMS cheat sheet, now integrated with Codebots and Gitlab, updates templates to this modular framework, linking team members to their roles and simplifying risk extraction and verification.


We categorize software modernization into three types: Like-for-Like Replacements, which upgrade outdated systems while preserving existing workflows; Spreadsheets Replacements, which transition from error-prone spreadsheets to scalable custom applications for better data management; and Disparate Systems Replacements, which integrate multiple unconnected systems into a single platform to streamline operations and improve decision-making. Modernizing systems is crucial for managing growth, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring future readiness.


Codebots, a platform engineering tool for designing and building software systems, has introduced several new features to enhance usability. Updates include Frame and Grids for better shape positioning, Container Layouts and Multiple Containers for improved organization, and Bulk Editing for easier model maintenance. Future updates will include logic-based models, performance metrics, and single diagram visuals for comprehensive application structure views. These enhancements aim to streamline system design and maintenance, making Codebots more powerful and user-friendly.


Continuous modernisation involves regularly updating systems, processes, and technologies to stay aligned with evolving business needs and market demands. It offers benefits like enhanced adaptability, innovation, and reduced maintenance. Key inhibitors include resistance to change, lack of resources, and reliance on outdated systems. Jidoka, a methodology combining automation, modelling, and quality, can facilitate continuous modernisation by improving efficiency and collaboration. Embracing continuous modernisation is crucial for remaining competitive and responsive to changing environments.


The Queensland Government's new digital license is a step towards addressing the challenges of digital identity management. As traditional methods like email-based identification become obsolete due to security risks, emerging solutions such as government digital identities, secure third-party verification, and token-based authentication offer a more secure and streamlined approach. The Trusted Digital Identity Framework (TDIF) and initiatives like the National Digital Licence aim to harmonize and simplify identity verification. While technology advances, legal and regional inconsistencies pose challenges. Collaboration between government and private sectors, leveraging technologies like Thales' Digital ID Wallet, will be crucial for creating a secure and efficient digital identity ecosystem.


In 2024, selecting the right project management software is crucial for ensuring efficient project execution and team collaboration. The best tools provide essential features like Gantt charts for scheduling, file storage, task delegation, calendar integration, and discussion boards. Key platforms include TeamGantt for smaller teams with unlimited free storage, Notion for small to medium-sized teams needing comprehensive tools, and Jira for larger teams or those using agile methodologies. GitLab stands out for development teams, integrating project management with DevOps, source control, and CI/CD pipelines. Each tool offers unique advantages based on your team’s size, budget, and specific needs.


Deciding between a mobile app and a web app is a crucial choice for businesses in 2024. Mobile apps offer superior speed, performance, and access to device features like cameras and GPS, but they come with higher development costs and the need for platform-specific builds. Web apps are cost-efficient, accessible across devices, and quicker to develop but rely on internet access and offer limited access to mobile features. The decision should be based on factors like your target audience, budget, desired functionality, and the time required to launch, ensuring the best fit for your business needs.


In 2024, prioritising technology pain points is crucial for efficient business operations and long-term success. Start by assessing your current technology, identifying gaps, and evaluating how well it supports your business processes. Categorise pain points by their impact, focusing on critical issues first, and incorporate quick wins like AI tools or cloud solutions to enhance productivity. With security and compliance as top priorities, adopting a data-driven approach ensures businesses address pressing challenges while setting the foundation for future growth. Regular communication of progress keeps teams engaged and focused on achieving results.


In 2024, CIOs play a crucial role in aligning technology with business goals, driving innovation, and fostering customer-centric strategies. Key focuses include building scalable systems that enable reuse across applications, prioritising talent development to create a future-ready workforce, and strategically implementing AI and automation to boost efficiency. Additionally, CIOs must ensure technology investments align with long-term organisational goals while addressing cybersecurity, data strategies, and sustainability to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape.


Government departments can develop cost-effective software by first understanding the problem they aim to solve and exploring existing solutions, such as Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) software, to minimise unnecessary development costs. Engaging stakeholders early, conducting interviews, and creating user personas helps ensure the software is accessible and meets user needs, while a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) allows for iterative improvements. By carefully planning, justifying the project with a strong business case, and continuously improving after release, departments can deliver high-quality, budget-friendly software that aligns with public service goals.


Jörn Guy Süß, Head of Research and Development at Codebots, recently spoke at the WorkingMouse office about his presentation at the 2022 MODELS Conference in Montreal. MODELS is a leading conference on model-driven software and systems engineering. Jörn discussed his paper published in the International Journal on Software and Systems Modeling, which highlights the shift from unreliable manual model-driven workflows to modern, repeatable processes using advanced frameworks. His talk delved into the relevance of continuous integration (CI) in model-driven engineering, challenges in applying CI to models, and solutions such as reusing the Ant build system.


As of 2024, WorkingMouse’s TrackerBot has received major updates, building on the foundation laid in 2023. TrackerBot, designed for the Australian Department of Defence, marks a significant leap forward in modernising Material Procurement Systems (MPS), offering enhanced flexibility, scalability, and control. The new system features innovative models such as the Entity, UI, and Meta models, all integrated with Codebots and built on a cutting-edge tech stack, aligning with the government’s push to phase out legacy systems. With its future-proof architecture and user-centric design, TrackerBot is set to revolutionise the way procurement is managed, improving efficiency and reducing costs for years to come.


When developing software, it’s crucial to bust common misconceptions. First, software is never truly “finished”; it needs ongoing support and maintenance, especially after launch. Second, just because you know what you want doesn’t mean you can immediately build it—successful software requires user-driven solutions and constant iteration. Misestimating project timelines is common, even with advanced tools in 2024, so don’t assume estimates are firm. Lastly, not all solutions need to be bespoke; consider off-the-shelf alternatives where appropriate, and remember that adding more developers doesn’t always mean faster delivery. Keep these factors in mind for smoother development and better outcomes.


In 2024, choosing the right analytics tool depends on your business size, needs, and budget. Tools like Google Analytics GA4 and Firebase are great for beginners, offering insights into user behaviour across web and mobile apps. For advanced data visualisation, Power BI and Tableau are top picks, while Apache Spark excels in handling big data. Tools like Hotjar and Mixpanel focus on user behaviour, with heatmaps and real-time analytics for deeper insights.


In 2024, a traceability matrix offers a more insightful approach to software testing than traditional code coverage. While code coverage measures the percentage of lines tested, a traceability matrix maps tests to specific features, ensuring all requirements are covered and prioritized. This tool provides better visibility into the health of an app for product owners, clarifying which features need attention and improving overall test management. However, it requires consistent tagging and attention to test quality to be fully effective.


Artificial Intelligence (AI) raises philosophical and ethical questions, especially around its deep learning capabilities, which mimic human brain processes. While AI’s potential for efficiency is significant, concerns about bias, unintended workarounds, and the ability to switch off autonomous systems remain. As AI evolves, ongoing discussions and research aim to mitigate risks and ensure safe advancements. Though these technologies are still in early stages, we must prepare for their future impact.


At WorkingMouse, we focus on the Four Golden Signals—latency, traffic, errors, and saturation—to monitor and optimize system performance. These metrics, part of Site Reliability Engineering (SRE) practices, help us maintain stability, identify issues early, and enhance user experience. By integrating these signals into our DevOps reports, we ensure high reliability and performance, prevent downtime, and support effective resource management and security.


Software modernization involves several risks including data migration challenges, integration issues, security vulnerabilities, budget overruns, user resistance, and downtime. Effective risk management requires careful planning, thorough risk assessments, and transparent communication. At WorkingMouse, we address these risks using the PRINCE2 framework for structured project management, ensuring proactive handling of potential issues. We implement phased rollouts, rigorous testing, and maintain detailed documentation to mitigate risks and ensure a smooth transition.


WorkingMouse has achieved ISO 27001 certification, underscoring our commitment to top-tier data security and reliability. ISO 27001 is a global standard for information security management, ensuring the protection of data, compliance, and risk mitigation. This accreditation enhances customer trust by demonstrating our rigorous security practices and adherence to high standards. For more details on our commitment to security, check out our ISO 27001 certification announcement.


Codebots has launched a new course called BotCamp, which we use to onboard our development teams. The four-week course, led by experts, covers model-driven engineering, augmented intelligence, and the Codebots product suite. It is now available to the public in Australia, Indonesia, Turkey, Brazil, and the USA. For more details or to register, visit the Codebots website.


Modern technologies significantly impact software development speed. APIs streamline integrations, rapid application development platforms like Codebots speed up coding, and existing libraries and tools save time. DevOps and CI/CD improve efficiency and feedback. While these technologies accelerate development, quality and maintainability remain crucial considerations.


Design reviews are crucial for maintaining the aesthetics and functionality of web and mobile applications. As applications evolve, they often drift from their original design, making periodic design reviews necessary. To conduct a review, set up a document to track issues and recommendations, examine user workflows, check for font consistency and accessibility, ensure color and button cohesion, and evaluate HTML structure. Regular design reviews help keep applications fresh and aligned with brand standards, preventing UI/UX issues as your software evolves.


first, evaluate whether to use off-the-shelf solutions or build a custom app. Next, create a product plan outlining goals, success metrics, user benefits, competitors, and unique value. Clearly articulate the problem your app will solve, and validate your assumptions by interviewing potential users. Formulate a comprehensive business plan, set a preliminary budget, and decide whether to hire in-house developers or partner with an app development company. Engage stakeholders early to align interests, and carefully select a development partner. Finally, keep your MVP lean, utilize analytics for informed decision-making, and conduct thorough user acceptance tests to ensure the app meets expectations.

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