Software & Systems Modelling


Governments are modernising outdated IT systems to meet public demand for efficient, secure digital services. Challenges include legacy systems, data security, user-focused design, and budget limits. Solutions involve cloud adoption, improved cybersecurity, and phased, cost-effective upgrades, as shown in partnerships like Queensland TMR and NSW Police. By embracing agile methods and expert collaboration, governments can enhance service delivery, security, and citizen satisfaction. …


The enterprise software landscape is moving toward a SaaS contraction as businesses simplify systems to reduce complexity and costs. With too many SaaS tools creating frustration and technical debt, companies need to focus on streamlining, improving cybersecurity, and integrating key solutions. Simplifying operations will cut unnecessary tools, lower costs, and reduce risks. …


WorkingMouse is committed to inspiring future tech leaders through initiatives like the InspireU STEM Camp. By providing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with hands-on tech experience and mentorship, we empower them to explore STEM careers and envision their future in the industry. …


Chronicles the journey of WorkingMouse as it navigated the complexities of becoming a leader in legacy system modernisation for government and enterprise sectors. It delves into the company’s early struggles, including operational missteps, challenging client relationships, and the development of innovative tools like Codebots. Through pivotal decisions and key moments, the article highlights how WorkingMouse refined its approach by focusing on people, processes, and tools, ultimately evolving into a trusted partner for modernising critical systems. The article also reflects on the lessons learned and the company’s vision for the future, emphasizing the importance of balance, connection, innovation, and mastery in software development services. …


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. …


Codebots’ new reports and analytics module offers customizable dashboards, a query builder for complex SQL queries, and integration with any relational database. It enables users to create, save, and export reports in PDF format, democratizing data access and enhancing reporting features. Suitable for both beginners and experienced users, the app transforms data into actionable insights with user-friendly and advanced querying options …


This article explores challenges with legacy systems based on stakeholder feedback, highlighting five main themes: system performance and integration issues, data management problems, inflexibility and the need for modernization, poor user experience, and policy/budget constraints. While the feedback points to significant hurdles, it emphasizes that modernization efforts must balance current constraints and operational needs. WorkingMouse suggests a strategic, incremental approach to modernizing core systems, starting with improvements in satellite systems and addressing fundamental issues to enhance overall efficiency and reduce risks. …


The WorkingMouse DevOps Report provides a comprehensive checklist for ensuring successful software development and support. It outlines key criteria for projects, such as pipeline state, testing coverage, production environment readiness, and documentation. Projects are assessed using a traffic light system (🔴, 🟠, 🟢) to track their progress and completeness. The report emphasizes the importance of investing in these features to maximize project success and operational efficiency, reflecting WorkingMouse's commitment to quality and best practices in DevOps. …


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. …


Choosing the right software type—Proof of Concept (PoC), Minimum Viable Product (MVP), or full-scale product—can significantly impact a business’s costs and growth. Off-the-shelf software offers lower upfront costs and immediate use but may lack flexibility. Custom software is tailored to specific needs, offering scalability at a higher initial cost. Hybrid solutions combine both approaches. Comprehensive software documentation, whether for off-the-shelf or custom software, is crucial for maintenance, troubleshooting, and future-proofing. Good documentation minimizes errors, reduces long-term costs, and supports efficient updates. …


Over-reliance on generative AI for creating code can lead to issues such as poor understanding, challenging debugging, and potential quality and security risks. AI tools like ChatGPT and GitHub Copilot are useful for generating code snippets and suggestions, but they lack the contextual awareness of human developers and can produce errors. It’s crucial to use AI as a collaborative tool rather than a complete solution, ensuring that human developers review, validate, and integrate AI-generated code to maintain accuracy, security, and adherence to best practices. …


In 2024, the Software Readiness Level (SRL) model refines NASA’s TRL and Steve Blank’s IRL, offering a tailored 12-step framework for app development. SRL covers key stages from business model creation and market validation to technical development, testing, and commercialization. It also includes advanced considerations like AI integration, enhanced cybersecurity, and compliance with data privacy regulations. This model ensures software projects stay aligned with modern standards, enabling smoother development and faster market readiness. …


Microservices architecture in 2024 is a method of software development that breaks down applications into independently deployable, modular services, each designed to perform a specific function. This approach allows for greater flexibility, scalability, and reduced risk, as services can be modified and deployed individually without impacting the entire system. Unlike monolithic applications, which are tightly coupled, microservices enable teams to scale specific functions efficiently, making them ideal for dynamic, large-scale environments. Companies like Codebots leverage this architecture, using automation to streamline development and deployment processes, enhancing overall software delivery. …


In 2024, protecting Intellectual Property (IP) is essential for businesses seeking a competitive edge. Key registrable IP rights in Australia include trademarks and patents, crucial for safeguarding branding and inventions, especially in tech-driven projects. Non-registrable rights like copyright, trade secrets, and confidential information also play a critical role, particularly in software development. Businesses must carefully manage IP ownership, monitor potential infringements, and ensure robust agreements with contractors. Staying informed about evolving IP laws and using modern tools to protect IP assets are essential strategies for corporate innovators in the digital era. …


Rescuing a software application requires a strategic approach, starting with reassessing the situation and identifying the core issues. By addressing resource gaps, evaluating the codebase using AI-driven tools, and determining if migration is necessary, teams can realign the project. Open communication and goal setting are critical to ensuring success, whether working with internal teams or outsourcing to a development company. In 2024, leveraging modern tools like CI/CD pipelines, AI-driven project management, and automated testing can streamline the process, helping to rescue and deliver a successful software project. …


This guide helps product owners set a budget for Agile software development projects, balancing business expectations with project realities. Agile projects often reveal effort and time in hindsight, which conflicts with the need for upfront financial planning. To navigate this, product owners should focus on leveraging technology like Codebots to automate coding tasks, use a risk-based estimation method, and employ flexible project trade-offs such as fixed time with variable scope to manage costs and timelines. This approach, alongside Behaviour Field Trials, helps streamline the process and avoid costly overruns. …


In 2024, automation helps businesses reduce manual interventions and boost efficiency, allowing staff to focus on more impactful tasks. Key trends include AI and machine learning for data-driven decisions, robotic process automation (RPA) for repetitive tasks, and low-code/no-code platforms empowering non-technical staff. By integrating these technologies, businesses can streamline workflows, enhance customer-centric processes, and leverage real-time data insights, all while driving sustainable digital transformation and staying competitive in the market. …


Automation is reshaping software teams, driven by trends like AI and low-code/no-code platforms, which are reducing the need for traditional development roles. Strategies like Jidoka (automation with a human touch), advanced DevOps practices, and Model-Driven Engineering (MDE) with AI integration are helping teams streamline workflows and increase productivity. In 2024, software development is being transformed by AI-powered tools that enable faster, higher-quality outputs while maintaining a balance between automation and craftsmanship. …


Codebots remains a top choice for digital transformation in 2024 by offering full ownership of intellectual property and generating high-quality, consistent code. It automates up to 90% of the codebase, increasing productivity and allowing developers to focus on innovation. With streamlined deployment and the ability to scale across platforms, Codebots simplifies digital transformation, helping organisations stay competitive while maintaining control over their digital assets. …


DevOps, particularly through CI/CD pipelines, improves software development by automating processes, reducing manual errors, and increasing efficiency. It emphasises quality assurance with built-in testing tools and empowers teams to manage releases independently. In 2024, DevOps practices like automation, improved visibility, and modern tool integration help teams deliver high-quality software faster and at a lower cost. …


Third-party APIs are essential for extending software capabilities, saving time, and reducing costs by integrating functionalities from external providers. They allow businesses to tap into expert knowledge, improve efficiency, and scale with ease. However, risks such as vendor lock-in, security vulnerabilities, and versioning issues need to be managed with best practices, including extensive testing, performance monitoring, and resilient design. APIs also play a crucial role in IoT and various industries, making them key to future software innovation. …


Post-launch software support is crucial for maintaining and enhancing software. There are different support models: the fixed-cost model provides set support levels for a monthly fee, while the pay-as-you-go model offers flexibility, charging only for actual support used. WorkingMouse uses a pay-as-you-go model, including a triage period to assess issues before fixing them. During triage, issues are categorised as defects, refinements, or improvements. This approach allows clients to control their support budget and adapt to fluctuating support needs. Budgeting 15-20% of the initial development cost for yearly support is recommended. …


Effective project management is crucial for successful software development. Choosing the right methodology (Waterfall or Agile) sets the foundation, while roles like Product Owner and Scrum Master ensure alignment and smooth workflows. Key practices include managing tasks efficiently, gathering user feedback, and using iterative processes. The Product Owner prioritises tasks, and the Scrum Master facilitates team progress. Post-launch strategies like App Store Optimization (ASO) and tracking KPIs are essential for long-term success. By integrating these project management practices, teams can ensure a product that meets user needs and drives business growth. …


Outsourcing software development allows Australian businesses to save costs, access global talent, and focus on core competencies. While local (onshore) outsourcing offers better communication and market understanding, it can be more expensive. Offshore outsourcing provides cost savings but may involve challenges like time zone differences and communication barriers. To succeed, businesses should carefully choose partners, watch for red flags, and maintain strong communication and collaboration. With the right strategy, outsourcing can drive innovation and efficiency. …


Offshoring software development can cut costs by outsourcing tasks to countries with lower wages, but it comes with risks like communication barriers, loss of control, and intellectual property concerns. While offshoring may offer short-term savings, hidden costs and potential challenges often outweigh the benefits. Onshoring, though more expensive upfront, provides better control, quality, communication, and IP protection. The choice between offshoring and onshoring depends on your project’s specific needs, timeline, and budget. For high-risk, critical projects, onshoring is often more reliable, while offshoring suits flexible, cost-sensitive projects. …


In today’s digital world, mobile apps are vital for businesses and individuals. Building a successful app requires choosing the right framework, with options like native (Xcode, Android Studio) offering high performance but higher costs, and hybrid (React Native, Ionic, .NET MAUI) providing cross-platform efficiency. Key metrics for app success include speed, reliability, and responsiveness. React Native stands out for its single codebase, active community, cost savings, and fast development features like hot reloading. However, it’s not ideal for apps needing complex interactions. The best framework depends on the app’s specific requirements and desired user experience. …


Chakra UI has become a vital component library for modern web development in 2024, especially at WorkingMouse. With its balance of flexibility, simplicity, and robust features, it streamlines the process of building user interfaces. Chakra UI’s integration with React makes it easy to use, while its focus on accessibility, strong documentation, and active community support ensures a seamless developer experience. Its permissive MIT licence fosters open-source collaboration, allowing developers to modify and distribute it freely. Chakra UI is an essential tool for creating efficient, scalable, and accessible web applications. …

Show More
WorkingMouse logo

(07) 3606 0230

info@workingmouse.com.au

C1/55 Railway Terrace Milton
QLD 4064 Australia


QAssure
No. 20247

Clutch Reiew logo with red stars

The logo for the ISO 27001 certificate

The Glassdoor logo

Quick Links

Services

Insights

Approach

Newsletter

Location


Careers

Privacy

Contact

Government

Our Story

All Rights Reserved. 2024 WorkingMouse Pty Ltd. All Rights Reserved.