How can you develop domain expertise for Enterprise Software?

Developing expertise in the domain of enterprise software is crucial in an increasingly specialized environment. Identifying the target domain is a pivotal step, and from my expert perspective, it emphasizes the importance of aligning this choice with market trends and specific industry demands. Focusing on areas like ERP, CRM, or HCM provides not only in-depth knowledge but also a competitive edge by delivering more precise and efficient solutions. This strategy not only enables more effective specialization but also facilitates adaptation to the complexities and swift changes in the enterprise software landscape, ensuring a significant and relevant impact in the market.

Software development without domain expertise is incomplete. To build a software fit for purpose it’s essential to understand the domain and purpose it is build for. The best way to gain domain expertise is to engage with business stakeholders representing that industry, work very closely with domain experts, understand the business process flows, as is pains and opportunities and then build or buy software that addresses the gaps, streamlines the processes and elevates the functionality and adoption

What I have seen work the best is becoming specialized in a platform like Workday, O365, HubSpot etc. being a line of business developer requires a unique perspective that combines business value and architecture. When you work with a specific platform you get exposed to these challenges on a project basis.

Be aware that this step may take time & that's ok! Be open to trying new things to discover what you enjoy, what you're good at, & what you can improve. Some ways you can do this are: - Utilize your network & mentorship circle to learn more about different paths. - Take on work tasks that you aren't strong in to expose you to different processes, systems, etc. ? - Seek out training (thank you LinkedIn Learning!) on subjects of unfamiliarity but of interest to you - Attend events/conferences to expand your network & learn of different industries or fields There is no right answer on what approach you take to discover your target domain nor is there one on how long it takes to discover it. Just go out there & try!

The best way to develop domain expertise is by actually working deeply in said vertical/department. Start by understanding the workflows in depth, every little detail. Once you can do it in your sleep, question everything about it. Why is it done this way? Are other companies doing the same thing? Why, why, why...

Each and every domain can be described with common objectives, as well as the problems that it faces. By learning about these, you can approximate the domain and develop more thorough understanding. Look for existing tools and patterns that solve the problems and meet the objectives. How they are applied will allow you to comprehend the complexity of the target domain problems and various tradeoffs that these solutions have.

A formal professional diploma or certification in the domain (from a University, or licensing body) can help solidify your understanding. It will also help your peers, clients, and employer to assess your expertise. Sharing your thoughts via Blogs or Social Media and/or participating in open source projects or doing your own project on the side - can help you apply your learnings and enhance them.

Someone will be talking about your chosen target on LinkedIn. Follow them, like and comment, DM them and connect. The various vendors in a space will all produce content. Get familiar with their websites, read their blogs, watch their YouTube videos. I like to follow key executives at the vendors and also key customers from their posted case studies and testimonials. Find their social media, search for interviews and podcasts they have done. Read the top 3-5 books in the field. Reach out to the authors online Lastly, there is always a conference. Go and make friends. All the vendors will give your their pitch.

Mastering the fundamentals and keeping abreast of trends is a fundamental step in gaining expertise in enterprise software. From my professional point of view, it involves not only understanding the basic terminology, concepts and processes, but also staying in tune with a constantly evolving landscape. In enterprise software, it is critical to stay abreast of current and emerging trends, challenges and opportunities. Tapping into a variety of learning sources (books, blogs, podcasts, specialised courses) is a useful strategy to thoroughly understand the concepts and stay ahead of the curve in the field. This continuous learning process is a worthwhile investment to stay relevant and provide valuable information in your chosen field.

In my experience of selling Enterprise software (CRM) before that acronym even existed - the key to success was spending time in the use case you were trying to solve. If you believe you have something that can help, nothing is more effective then watch a "day in the life" of your potential user. For someone who has already made the decision to build a software solution, my hunch is you have already lived this and that is the reason for you wanting to build something new or better. That said, consider not only the users, but the other key players in your assessments and get crystal clear on the problems you can solve.

Engaging with key players and stakeholders in enterprise software provides invaluable insights and perspectives. Following key vendors, developers, consultants and analysts allows you to stay informed about the latest innovations, industry changes and expert opinions. Similarly, following actual or potential customers, users and partners in your industry gives you a user-centric perspective, helping you understand practical challenges, needs and expectations. Leveraging channels - social media, forums, newsletters and industry events - to this end creates a holistic approach to staying connected to the pulse of the industry. This active engagement not only fosters continuous learning, but also establishes connections that can be critical.

The fast track to gain domain knowledge is to work together with an expert every single day. We start with pair programming sessions from day one when someone joins our team. Being able to see how an expert develops an enterprise-grade React app multiplies your knowledge automagically.

Practising and applying your knowledge in the area you are interested in is essential on the road to mastering business software. In my view, experience and practical application are the cornerstones of true expertise. Whether through product demonstrations, simulations, or participation in real-world projects and challenges specific to your domain, active application of your skills solidifies your understanding and hones your problem-solving skills. The use of various tools (online platforms, sandboxes or code editors), will allow you to immerse yourself in the practical aspects of enterprise software. This step not only consolidates your knowledge, but also equips you with the confidence and dexterity to perform effectively.

Seeking feedback and continuous improvement is an important part of mastering any subject. In my experience, continuous learning and a willingness to receive constructive feedback is key to professional growth. Asking for feedback from experts, colleagues and mentors not only provides valuable information about your current performance, but also points you towards areas for improvement and enhancement. Feedback serves as a catalyst for continuous improvement, allowing you to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of business software in your specific domain. The use of various methods, such as surveys, reviews and coaching, ensures a comprehensive approach to seeking feedback and paves a solid path towards progress and excellence.

The beautiful thing about software and technology is that it is ever changing with user needs and feature releases. Learning it today, doesn’t mean you master it forever. You have to keep up on the evolving use cases and new technology. I find that constant collaboration between the technology supplier and customer is the key to a successful long term relationship.

The best way to learn is to take up a business problem and work on it, the learning curve is steepest when it’s learning on the job. This brings in ownership, transparency and collaboration. Stakeholders are ready to support when they see an honest effort. Best way to learn swimming is to get into the pool, one can never learn swimming by reading books or watching videos.

Adopting Enterprise software isn't just about the tech, but also about people and process. Consider creating a Center of Excellence, one person or a team, that helps oversees your initiative, and it can help protect and maintain your investment and promote effective use, shares best practices and, of course, customises the training for your needs.

Don't just single thread the problem, meaning one problem to one solution to value. Keep in mind different problems for different roles. Seek them, ask about them, build solutions to problems you don't see solved by any of your closest competitors.