Abstract: Techniques for service modification utilizing a split design-assign framework are described. An existing service design for a service is obtained. The input data structure that would be used to build the desired service design from scratch is obtained or computed. A design “add” function is executed using this new input data structure as if building the desired service design for the first time. A difference is determined between the existing service design and the desired service design, resulting in instructions for objects needed to be created, modified, and/or deleted in the existing service design to achieve the desired service design. These instructions are applied to an inventory system, thereby achieving the desired service design.