  Layered software architecture contains several intra-layer and inter-layer
dependencies. Each layer depends on shared components making it difficult to
release a code change, bug fix or feature without exhaustive testing and having
to build the entire software code base. This paper proposed self-contained,
cross-cutting pipeline architecture (SCPA) that is independent of existing
layers. We chose 2 open source projects and 3 internal intern projects that
used n-tier architecture and applied the SCPA to release subsequent feature
additions and any bug fixes. The SCPA decreased the release time by 42.99%. The
lines of delivered code (LOC), increased by 22.58%. The number of defects found
in existing functionality decreased by 85.54%. The SCPA also provided ability
to roll back or switch off the new feature quickly. SCPA proved a suitable
architecture for agile software development and continuous deployment.
