S2 | E13 | Sustainable Technology with Oliver Cronk - Technology Director at Scott Logic
In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we are joined by Oliver Cronk, Technology Director at Scott Logic. The conversation delves into the challenges and solutions of sustainable technology.Oliver shares his insights on the importance of reducing technology's environmental impact, aligning business goals with sustainability, and the crucial role of critical thinking for architects in today's world.Discussions also cover pragmatic AI applications, responsible AI development, and the future role of architects amid advancing technologies.Understanding Sustainable TechnologyThe Role of Enterprise Architects in SustainabilityEmerging Regulations and Corporate ESG GoalsTech Carbon Standard and Its ImpactResponsible AI DevelopmentGeopolitical Impacts on Tech CompaniesTrust and Governance in AIThe Role of Architects in AI ImplementationAI's Potential and RisksFuture of the Architect ProfessionPractical AI Applications in EnterprisesGovernance and Ethical Standards in AIWatch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup-------------------------Extra Stuff:Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market? What's in the report?Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market?-------------------------Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/-------------------------Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/-------------------------Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/
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45:35
S2 | E12 | Legacy Systems Modernization and the role of Architecture Vikram Karumbaiah - Head of Architecture at Tenerity
In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we speak with Vikram Karumbaiah, Head of Architecture with 25 years of experience, about the challenges and strategies involved in modernizing legacy systems. Vikram shares his journey from handling Y2K issues to leading a team of architects at Tenerity, a company that provides loyalty programs, customer engagement, and identity protection solutions. They discuss the hidden costs of maintaining legacy systems, security risks, and the importance of involving business processes in modernization efforts. Vikram also offers insights into the key attributes of a great architect and the essential methodologies and frameworks for successful system modernization.Understanding 10: Loyalty Programs and Customer EngagementThe Role of an ArchitectModernizing Legacy Systems: Hidden Costs and ChallengesSecurity Risks in Legacy SystemsCommon Objections to ModernizationUnderstanding NPS and CSAT ScoresCommon Mistakes in ModernizationChange Management StrategiesFrameworks and Methodologies for ModernizationAdvice for Aspiring ArchitectsFuture of Architecture and AIWatch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup-------------------------Vikram's recommended readingBook - "The culture Map"** by Erin MeyerHMRC Legacy system budget - https://www.theregister.com/2021/01/22/hmcr_pandemic_cost_are_45/IRS - Individual master file - https://taxpolicycenter.org/briefing-book/what-technology-does-irs-use#:~:text=The IMF is integral to,trained in ALC and COBOL.Book - "Serverless as a Game Changer" by Joseph EmisonInvertse conway's law - https://www.happyporch.com/articles/posts/the-power-of-software-shaping-organizations-through-inverse-conway-s-law/ Martin fowler - Patterns of legacy displacementVibe Coding - https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/27/technology/personaltech/vibecoding-ai-software-programming.htmlCompute over data (CoD) - Bacalhau-------------------------Extra Stuff:Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market? What's in the report?Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market?-------------------------Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/-------------------------Follow the Podcast:...
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41:08
S2 | E11 | How to Get People to Listen to Architects with Petra in’t Veld-Brown
In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we interview Petra in’t Veld-Brown, an expert in strategic business transformation and enterprise architecture.With over 30 years of experience, Petra shares her journey and insights into effectively integrating business change delivery with architecture.The conversation covers the evolving role of architects from technical experts to enablers of organisational change, the importance of transparency and clear communication, and how architects can influence business decisions without being perceived as blockers. Petra also discusses how can architects can ensure accountability for architecture outcomes without stepping into operational decision-making?07:54 Challenges and Perceptions of Architects17:23 Architects as Advisors and Facilitators21:48 The Role of Architects in Decision Making22:29 Recording Decisions and Their Consequences23:55 Adapting Architecture to Changing Environments24:45 Communicating Effectively as an Architect25:42 Simplifying Complex Information27:52 The Importance of Reference Architecture30:21 Enterprise vs. Solution Architecture32:07 Advice for New Chief Architects35:33 Future of Architecture and TechnologyWatch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup-------------------------Extra Stuff:Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market? What's in the report?Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market?-------------------------Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/-------------------------Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/-------------------------Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/
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39:25
S2 | E10 | Why You Shouldn’t Become an EA with Gerben Wierda
In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we interview Gerben Weirda, author and expert in enterprise architecture. We discuss the reasons why many transformation programs fail and what can be done to address these pitfalls. Gerben shares insights from his 45-year career in IT, discussing the complexities of modern digital landscapes, the importance of both technical expertise and psychological skills for architects, and why he believes the classic approach to enterprise architecture is flawed.We cover the role of AI, the need for coalition building, and the Catch-22 faced by enterprise architects. The conversation also delves into effective strategies for maintaining influence and credibility with leadership while simplifying complex concepts without oversimplifying the reality.Whether you're an aspiring enterprise architect or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice.07:17 What Makes a Great Architect?10:38 The Complexity Crunch in Digital Transformation18:47 The Impact of Generative AI on Complexity21:09 The Psychology of Architecture26:53 The Power of Psychology in Team Dynamics27:28 Dealing with Convictions and Beliefs29:38 Building Relationships and Credibility35:05 The Catch-22 of Simplifying Complexity39:06 Future Skills for Enterprise ArchitectsWatch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup-------------------------Extra Stuff:Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market? What's in the report?Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market?-------------------------Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/-------------------------Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/-------------------------Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/
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47:30
S2 | E9 | Moneyball and Enterprise Architecture with Steven Hemmings, Head of Client EA at Insight
In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we speak with Steven Hemmings, Technology Leader and part of the CTO Office for EMEA at Insight Enterprises. Steven shares his journey from the Bank of England to transforming enterprise architecture, emphasizing the importance of business acumen, technical expertise, and leadership.The discussion highlights how the principles from the movie 'Moneyball' can be applied to enterprise architecture to challenge traditional methodologies and drive data-driven decisions for long-term success. Key insights include the value of stakeholder relationships, the balance of risk management, and how to build trust quickly within organizations.03:12 The Role of Enterprise Architects06:21 Moneyball and Data-Driven Decision Making08:20 Overcoming Resistance in Enterprise Architecture12:37 Metrics for Proving EA Value15:48 Positioning EA within Organizations18:43 Practical vs. Theoretical EA23:42 Defining KPIs and Outcome-Driven Approaches24:27 The Importance of Stakeholder Management25:23 Building Credibility and Trust27:05 Balancing Risk and Innovation31:06 Setting Principles for Team Success32:47 Misconceptions About Enterprise Architecture35:13 Leadership Lessons from MoneyballWatch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup-------------------------Extra Stuff:Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market? What's in the report?Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market?-------------------------Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/-------------------------Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/-------------------------Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/
Welcome to "Transformational Blueprints", the podcast where we delve into the world of technology architecture, career growth, leadership, and digital transformation challenges.
According to McKinsey, BCG, KPMG and Bain & Company, the risk of digital transformations failure falls somewhere between 70% and 95%.
Join us each week as we sit down with Architecture experts and thought leaders to discuss their journeys, successes, and obstacles they've overcome in an attempt to reduce that figure.
Hosted by Mario Michaels, Founder of Synaxia Group this podcast is essential listening for anyone looking to stay ahead in the world of technology. Don't forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast platform!
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