Workaround

A workaround is an unofficial or temporary fix for a problem. In effect, it is an admission that the issue cannot be immediately resolved, and a patchwork fix is put in place.

Workarounds are not intended to be permanent fixes but have a tendency to be left in place longer than anticipated. One problem with a workaround is that it is often quickly pieced together, so is generally not a robust or efficient process. Workarounds often collapse under increased pressure, such as when demand picks up, or new people come into the job.