Here's how you can debunk common misconceptions about emotional intelligence in system architecture.

Having an opinion is one thing, but sharing yours & taking in others' is far more important - from stakeholders to team to peers.

Um problema recorrente em equipes técnicas que carecem de inteligência emocional é a produ??o de estimativa de tempo de entrega subestimado ou superestimado, devido a pouca experiencia da equipe, de seus gaps, dificuldades e deficiências que só com muita conversa do arquiteto com a equipe podem diminuir. Além disso, uma arquitetura mal feita pode surgir da ausência de conversas profundas com o cliente. A desmotiva??o do time pode ocorrer quando os membros n?o se sentem parte da solu??o proposta pelo arquiteto, na falta de pertencimento da equipe, entre outras situa??es, s?o problemas que o conhecimento técnico sozinho n?o consegue resolver.

Initially, we undervalued EI, focusing mainly on technical expertise. However, integrating EI principles into our processes, like actively listening to stakeholders and empathetically resolving team conflicts, markedly improved project outcomes. For instance, understanding team dynamics and managing expectations led to smoother project deliveries and more effective stakeholder communication, making our systems both technically robust and user-centered.

La inteligencia emocional no va dada simplemente por una formación académica o un cargo, va dada por la experiencia y las más variadas vivencias a la hora de dirigir un equipo, e aquí la importancia del recorrido profesional.

Successful system architects must master collaboration, negotiation, and leadership, all of which heavily rely on emotional intelligence. Besides grasping system requirements, they must adeptly manage stakeholder expectations and steer teams through intricate projects. Emotional intelligence enables them to address the human aspects of technology, ensuring that systems are both technically strong and user-friendly. Therefore, emotional intelligence is vital for developing solutions that satisfy both technical criteria and user needs.

Systems engineers must articulate complex technical concepts to stakeholders, including team members, management, and clients who may not have a technical background. Clear communication ensures that requirements, design decisions, and project statuses are understood by all parties. Systems engineering projects often involve cross-functional teams. Soft skills like empathy, active listening, and collaboration enable systems engineers to work effectively with diverse groups. In summary, while technical expertise forms the foundation of systems engineering, soft skills amplify the ability to apply this knowledge effectively in real-world scenarios, leading to better project outcomes and professional success.

With over 30 years of experience as a technical and enterprise architect in the financial sector, I have found that soft skills are more crucial than ever for any talented architect. It is important to invest not only in technical skills but also to seek quality and reliable education in soft skills. In addition to education, everyday practice is also crucial. In my career, many solutions were accepted, even in tense situations, when I learned how to overcome challenges and help others see the value of my solutions. That's the value of practice—it goes beyond theoretical knowledge.

Hold on tightly, let go loosely… Inevitably you will have pushback or rejection of an architecture decision… You should be thorough and persuasive when promoting a tech decision. But it is important to constantly revisit whether “dying on the hill” and sacrificing capital to defend the idea is more important in the long run than being cooperative. Often the way forward has new learning opportunities for you as it is not your solution. And if the chosen path fails, you have the backup plan and know that you have earned your spot on the team. Either way you will be seen as reasonable and cooperative. Fighting tooth and nail over some tech decision is USUALLY a fail. Being obstinate and uncooperative about it SHOULD get you fired.

The view that system architects work in isolation is a misconception. In reality, they lead cross-functional teams and use emotional intelligence to ensure effective communication and align the team with project goals. This team dynamic is crucial for success in complex projects. #SystemArchitecture #Leadership #Teamwork

Communication plays a fundamental role in a system architect's work. Even with so many communication platforms available today, it is essential to keep the team connected not only technically but also emotionally and personally. This fosters more engaged teams and strengthens leadership—something I have witnessed throughout my career, especially in large and complex projects. The human factor must be considered, along with all its nuances.

Collaboration and Teamwork: Systems engineering projects often involve cross-functional teams. Soft skills like empathy, active listening, and collaboration enable systems engineers to work effectively with diverse groups, fostering a productive and harmonious work environment.

Emotional intelligence (EI) is crucial for systems engineers working on UX design for several reasons: 1. User Empathy: EI helps systems engineers understand and empathize with users’ needs, feelings, and frustrations. This understanding is essential for creating intuitive and user-friendly interfaces that genuinely meet users’ requirements. 2. Enhanced User Experience (UX): By leveraging EI, systems engineers can design interfaces that are not only functional but also engaging and pleasant to use. Recognizing users’ emotional responses to different design elements allows for the creation of a more satisfying user experience.

I believe that continuous learning in emotional intelligence is the key for any professional aiming to be successful in system architecture and advance in their career. Today, with so many tech-educational platforms available, there is a shortage of those offering quality EI content. While good content in this area is hard to find, it is not impossible. As I have seen throughout my career, investing time and money in courses focused on emotional intelligence is worthwhile. The benefits will positively impact your entire professional (and personal) life.