MISSION_LOG // 2026-09-06
The case for small, deployable applications
One repository, one container, fewer things to keep in your head.
ArchitectureDocker
Example article — written to demonstrate the blog. Edit or replace before publishing.
A simple deployment is a feature for the person maintaining the software. Fewer moving parts make it easier to understand what is running and why.
Keep the boundary clear
A single application can still have careful internal structure. Separate domain decisions from transport and presentation before separating them into services.
| Decision | A useful starting point |
|---|---|
| Content | Files in the repository |
| Deployment | A single container |
| Complexity | Add it when needed |
FROM node:24-alpine
WORKDIR /app
ENV NODE_ENV=production
CMD ["node", "server.js"]
This snippet illustrates a runtime, not a complete Dockerfile. A real build also needs dependency installation, compilation and the application files.
Leave room to grow
Simple does not mean permanent. It means the current system is proportionate to the current problem.
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