Working In Architecture Spaces

The way we approach to work is important in any discipline in general and in software architecture world in particular.  A SW architecture need to work in following works spaces

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       Preparation Space

Problem space

Solution space

 Opportunity space

The following figure explains each of the above spaces 

Architecture Spaces 

AS& SMART – Architecturally significantly specific, measurable, attainable, reusable, reusable and testable requirements.  

Mafia offer/suggestion – An offer/suggestion which is so good that it is easily accepted by the respective stake holders.   

We seldom spend any time in preparation space explicitly. We need to spend time in preparation space explicitly so that we can be ready for the assignment in hand. Professionals in other fields, e.g. sports,  spend considerable time in preparation space and their ultimate success depends on how well they spend their time in this particular spaces.  Out of the above four spaces, we are going to spend maximum time in solution space. However, preparation, problem and opportunity space are point of leverages. By spending some additional quality time in these spaces, we can considerable reduce time spend in solution space. We add more than proportional value to stakeholders.

We should not work sequentially in these spaces. We should able to move from one space to another space depending upon the context and practical situation. While working in one space, we should be totally isolated from other spaces. For example while working in problem space, we should not think about the solution. While working in any space, we should always keep the current context in mind.  

It is also important that some time we work in opportunity space. In this space, we should ask some probing questions as mentioned in the above figure. This can help to innovate in process, product and services and next practices.  Mark McGregor is right when he says that we  do the catch job by implementing best practices and gain real sustainable competitive advantage  identifying and implementing next practices on continuous basis . In future only those software professionals will survive who not only follow best practices but can think of next practices, next generation of products etc. on continuous basis. Hence working on opportunity domain and asking probing question will be critical  success factor for future software architecture professionals.