The Architecture Review is a very tricky task not only because of the technical aspects.
I find the Architecture Review challenging because of my expectations. When hired to do the Architecture Review, I should find some areas of improvement. I know that isn’t true, but my subconscious can not accept that.
The Architecture Review is not about finding something - it is about reviewing the existing design.
There are two outcomes of that review:
- A list of suggested improvements,
- Confirmation of current design.
Providing the list of suggested improvements is easy. It requires strong technical background and experience in system design. I feel that I did good work if I help to improve the existing design.
But what if the current design is solid and there is nothing to improve? That is an uncomfortable situation for me. Do not get me wrong. I am not jealous that someone did a great job. How can I prove my value if I did not provide any insights?
In moments like that, I need to remind myself that there are two outcomes of the Architecture Review outcomes:
- A list of suggested improvements,
- Confirmation of current design.
Confirmation of the current design does not reduce my value. It proves that some other architect did a great job.
My review reduced the risk of failure, and the project can safely proceed to the next phase.
