DEIF

Consultation on Modernization of Embedded Codebase

DEIF contacted Mjølner Informatics early in 2024, because they wanted consultation on proposed modernization and modularization of their embedded codebase. More specifically, the company was looking for guidance on how to split their existing codebase into smaller, more manageable modules or components. The purpose was to create a more structured code, which would be more reusable and easier to maintain, and could more readily be repurposed across projects.

Branche:

Manufacturing

Vi leverede:

Digitaliseringsrådgivning

Teknologi:

Embedded user interface development

A NEED ARISES

DEIF is one of the world’s leading companies in development, production, and distribution of advanced solutions for energy management and energy protection.

The company has created a wide range of products, among which are some small, embedded platforms and devices. DEIF was interested in consultation concerning these products and how to move towards a more modernized and modularized codebase.

– Søren Madsen, Senior Department Manager, Product Software & Tools at DEIF

“We contacted Mjølner based on a need for advice and technical consultation, as we were facing this challenge of modernizing and modularizing our embedded codebase with a view to reusing components across various projects.

Some of our colleagues have participated in one of Mjølner’s C++ events and thereby seen Mjølner’s strong qualifications in the field. So, we felt completely comfortable in reaching out to them.”

Søren Madsen, Senior Department Manager, Product Software & Tools at DEIF

NEW INSIGHTS AND BEST PRACTICES  

Based on Mjølner’s expertise in the area, DEIF invited Mjølner Senior Embedded Solution Architect, Bent Bisballe Nyeng, for a visit. Bent facilitated a workshop at DEIF’s main office in Skive with the purpose of mapping out the current practices in DEIF as well as providing direct input and consultation.

In addition to a general boost in C++ practices, the main talking points were memory usage on small micro controllers and code sharing across various projects and platforms.

DEIF's hovedkvarter i Skive

The workshop participants collaborated on performing a high-level review on select parts of the existing codebase. The general examination then led to further discussion on tests and ways to test embedded code, both with and without hardware in the picture.

To conclude the workshop, Mjølner gave a presentation on best practices when using modern C++ on systems with memory limitations. Bent walked through the steps of fencing legacy code, a process in which the developer isolates old, existing code in a software application in order to gradually work on modernizing it, while still ensuring that the system as a whole is in a working state. That way you can modernize the code bit by bit without having to recreate everything from scratch and without interrupting operations.

“After consulting with Mjølner Senior Embedded Solution Architect, Bent Bisballe Nyeng, we have renewed insights in ways to move forward. This means that we are better prepared for extending the new practices to our colleagues in the organization.”

Søren Madsen, Senior Department Manager, Product Software & Tools at DEIF

COMPETENT CONSULTATION IS KEY IN THE JOURNEY TOWARDS A MODERN IT ORGANISATION  

As the digital development progresses, many organizations face challenges of modernizing their codebases. The need arises for new digital skills and knowledge of best practices. Competent professional consultation with an external partner can play a vital role, as it can be difficult to find the time to handle the task internally.

The embedded department at Mjølner is home to 18 C++ specialists who assist clients in their journey from a legacy codebase to a more modern setup – often with a pragmatic and modularized approach. Mjølner has extensive experience with upskilling employees for acquiring new technologies or new ways of working. A combination of external advice and continuing the education of one’s own employees can often be an efficient and valuable way to modernize an IT organization.

We continually create public events centered on the strong qualifications at Mjølner. The programming language C++ has been the topic of several inspiring lectures by external speakers such as Bjarne Stroustrup, founder of C++, and Søren Hansen, professor at Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Aarhus University.

It was DEIF’s participation in one such C++ event at Mjølner that led to the collaboration on a review of the company codebase. If you or your company is facing a similar challenge, contact us. Or keep an eye out for our next event.

The Client

DEIF A/S is one of the world’s leading companies when it comes to intelligent, electronic management systems for decentralized power production on land and offshore. DEIF A/S was founded in 1933 and has more than five hundred employees worldwide. The main office is in Skive, Denmark, and through subsidiary companies in twelve countries, DEIF is present in more than fifty international markets.