what is architectural thinking

Normal thinking becomes architectural thinking when two criteria are met:

Architectural thinking is thinking with a purpose. Thinking how to best articulate a complex issue, solve a problem, make a difficult decision, tell an intricate story; these are all examples of thinking with a purpose
Architectural thinking occurs at least across 3 different dimensions. For example thinking architecturally about a new building should probably consider at least the dimensions of space, time and people (the architect that doesn’t think about the people using the building is unlikely to succeed).
Business needs, cost, technology and users are some important dimensions (there are also others) for developing IT systems. What-Why-Who-When, Current-Target-Gap are other useful generic dimension. If you can’t find a third relevant dimension (e.g. you should only worry about cost and comfort when you buy a pair of shoes!), there is no need for architectural thinking.

About Vincenzo Marchese

passionate, energetic and pragmatic (in that order!), always keen to learn, engage with people, and tackle new challenges. Having started my career as a software engineer, in more recent roles I have been accountable for professionalising and measurably improving the value delivered by the architecture practice of large global organisations. Throughout my career I have built a strong professional network, and I am highly regarded by those I worked with. I have strong interpersonal and communication skills and have spoken at a number of international conferences. I was born in Sicily, and studied Computer Science at the University of Pisa. I moved to London in 1995, where I now live with my wonderful family. I volunteer in my local community. Specialties: - Establish/transform EA practice - Responsible and ethical AI - Enterprise Architecture Methodology - TOGAF

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2 Responses to what is architectural thinking

Sakou Nkrumah says:

March 18, 2015 at 12:10 pm

I agree thinking with a purpose is not encouraged generally, hence you have so many people with knowledge they cant apply. Until a purpose is determined the body of knowledge is dead to the person and the only use it has is to pass an examination…and cannot be applied

Ravindar Kumar says:

March 20, 2022 at 4:56 am

I agree with definitions and been practicing Architecture for Enterprise for long time and I like to add Architectural thinking is also about collaboration and communication with clear purpose and outcomes.. I have written a book Title- Architecting Your Future based on Architectural thinking mindsets ..