Harnessing the Traditional Japanese Shikinen Sengu System for the Evolution of Information Systems

Abstract

Modern ICT systems often experience failures due to their complex and evolving nature. Inspired by the Japanese Shikinen Sengu tradition, where shrine structures are rebuilt every 20 years to preserve craftsmanship and cultural heritage, this approach can be applied to ICT systems. Periodic renewal and modernization, regardless of current stability, prevent obsolescence and ensure robust performance. This strategy also facilitates knowledge transfer, strategic resource allocation, and better maintenance cost forecasting. Integrating these renewal costs into lifecycle planning ensures the reliability and security of critical infrastructure in a rapidly advancing technological landscape. Agent-Based approach is an effective framework to study such modern complex ICT systems.

Keywords: ICT System Evolution, Shikinen Sengu System, Agent-Based Approach