Course Outline
Module 1: Scalable Architecture Standards
Objective: Establish a concise, shared framework of architectural standards that senior leadership can utilize for daily operational decision-making.
Topics
- Architectural principles: Determining which elements require standardization versus those delegated to engineering teams
- System decomposition fundamentals: Defing clear boundaries and accountability structures
- Integration fundamentals: Establishing API contracts, versioning strategies, and compatibility protocols
- Messaging systems overview: Evaluating Kafka versus RabbitMQ to identify standardization opportunities
- Data management overview: Establishing ownership models and source-of-truth strategies (MongoDB + SQL Server)
- Identification of common architectural anti-patterns in high-scale systems
- Implementation of lightweight decision documentation (ADR/RFC concepts)
Module 2: Code Architecture in Large-Scale .NET Solutions
Objective: Align on practical guidelines for making robust code architecture decisions within extensive solution sets.
Topics
- Structuring large .NET solutions: Organizing modules, layering, and defining boundaries
- Managing dependency direction and ensuring architectural visibility within the codebase
- Shared libraries: Assessing when they enhance efficiency versus when they introduce unwanted coupling
- Defining integration boundaries in code: Applying separation of concerns patterns
- Code architecture review frameworks: Identifying key indicators for rapid assessment
- Exception management strategies that maintain system consistency
Module 3: Design Reviews Driving Decisive Outcomes
Objective: Implement a consistent design review methodology that yields definitive decisions and fosters collective understanding.
Topics
- Characteristics of effective design reviews at the Principal level
- Review workflows: Defining scope and timing for reviews
- Review criteria: Identifying the most critical evaluation factors
- Facilitation techniques: Ensuring senior-level discussions remain focused and productive
- Decision closure: Strategies for resolving debates and progressing projects
- Outcome capture: Documenting decisions and subsequent action items
- Practical application: Conducting a review using a concise system-level case study
Module 4: Exerting Influence Without Formal Authority for Principals
Objective: Enhance mentoring, feedback, and alignment practices with individual contributors.
Topics
- Mentoring versus directing: Coaching techniques that respect ownership
- Providing high-level technical feedback: Ensuring clarity and adherence to standards
- Driving alignment across individual contributors: Applying practical techniques
- Constructively addressing disagreement and resistance
- Developing simple conversation patterns and scripts for Principals to reuse
Requirements
Participants are required to provide two to three anonymized examples of recurring debates, such as system decomposition choices, integration approaches, or code structure rules. Any existing internal standards may be shared on an optional basis.
Testimonials (2)
Trainer knowledge, involvement, and rapport
Adam Kuklewski - GE Medical Systems Polska
Course - Technical Architecture and Patterns
I liked the exercises that helped to open the mind and gain new insights into software architecture.
