Transformational Blueprints

Synaxia Group

Welcome to "Transformational Blueprints", the podcast where we delve into the world of technology architecture, career growth, leadership, and digital transformation challenges. According to McKinsey, BCG, KPMG and Bain & Company, the risk of digital transformations failure falls somewhere between 70% and 95%. Join us each week as we sit down with Architecture experts and thought leaders to discuss their journeys, successes, and obstacles they've overcome in an attempt to reduce that figure. Hosted by Mario Michaels, Founder of Synaxia Group this podcast is essential listening for anyone looking to stay ahead in the world of technology. Don't forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast platform!

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    S2 | E19 | Blueprints for Impact, Proving Value, Driving Change and Adapting to AI with Grant Ecker

    Transformation Mastery with Grant Ecker: Proving Value, Adopting Tech & Closing Talent Gaps Why do so many transformation programmes fail to deliver? In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we sit down with Grant Ecker, VP of Enterprise Architecture at Ecolab, to cut through the noise and talk about what really drives impactful change. Grant shares hard-earned lessons on proving the value of architecture to business leaders, adopting emerging tech like AI responsibly, and closing the talent and skills gaps holding organisations back. Packed with real-world stories, actionable insights, and zero corporate theatre — this is a must-listen for anyone serious about delivering transformation that sticks. The Importance of Enterprise ArchitectureProving Value to the BusinessAdapting to Emerging TechnologiesNavigating AI Upskilling in ArchitecturePractical Strategies for AI IntegrationProof of Concept and Pilot PhasesChallenges in Enterprise ArchitectureBuilding a Modern Enterprise ArchitectThe Role of AI in Hiring ArchitectsFinal Thoughts and Takeaways Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup ------------------------- Extra Stuff: Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market?  What's in the report? Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market? ------------------------- Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/ ------------------------- Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/ ------------------------- Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/

    48 min
  2. 9 SEPT

    S2 | E18 | Leading Without Limits: How to Build Teams That Show Up Even When the Money Runs Out with Nadir Khan

    In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we welcome Nadir Khan from Victoria and Albert Museum, to explore the foundational question of why so many transformation programs fall short and what can be done about it. Nadir shares insights from his career, including his experience leading smart campus transformations at Queen Mary University and his current role at the Victoria and Albert Museum. The conversation delves into how to build teams that show up even in resource-constrained environments, the importance of purpose-driven leadership, and strategies to align technology with organizational goals. Nadir also discusses his work during the COVID-19 pandemic, managing undocumented data centers in the UK Parliament, and imparting key lessons in leadership, culture, and technology governance. The Role of Technology in MuseumsEnterprise Architecture in the COVID EraInnovations and Challenges in Government InfrastructureBalancing Urgency with GovernanceBuilding Trust and Motivation in High-Pressure EnvironmentsForming a Team with the Right AttitudeTransparency and Purpose-Driven LeadershipOvercoming Challenges and Resource ConstraintsThe Importance of Recognition and Team OwnershipKey Takeaways on Leadership and CultureAdvice for New Architecture Leaders Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup ------------------------- Extra Stuff: Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market?  What's in the report? Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market? ------------------------- Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/ ------------------------- Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/ ------------------------- Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/

    45 min
  3. 26 AUG

    S2 | E17 | Humans at the Heart of Enterprise Architecture with Jon Durant ex Head of Architecture at UCAS

    In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we dive deep into why so many transformation programs fail and explore real-world solutions with Jon Durant, an esteemed architecture leader. Jon discusses his extensive experience in the finance, publishing, and education sectors, sharing insights on the crucial role of humans in enterprise architecture. We learn about UCAS and its pivotal admissions service, the impact of AI on architecture, and strategies for tackling legacy transformations. Jon emphasizes building trust, maintaining communication, and focusing on the human side of digital transformations. This episode is packed with practical advice on managing stakeholder buy-in, succession planning, and keeping teams engaged over the long haul. The Role of Architects in the Age of AISkills and Traits of a Great ArchitectTackling Legacy Systems in Digital TransformationChallenges in Public Sector TransformationsMaintaining Continuity in Long-Term ProjectsSuccession Planning in Transformation ProgramsIdentifying the Right Team for TransformationEvaluating Team Readiness and Soft SkillsMaintaining Morale and Engagement Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup ------------------------- Extra Stuff: Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market?  What's in the report? Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market? ------------------------- Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/ ------------------------- Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/ ------------------------- Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/

    42 min
  4. 12 AUG

    S2 | E16 | Do We Really Need Architects Anymore with Luca Mezzalira from AWS

    In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we were joined by Luca Mezzalira, Principal Solutions Architect at AWS. We discuss the evolving role of architects in the tech world, particularly focusing on the balance between technical skills and communication. Luca shares his journey from software developer to architect, emphasizing the importance of viewing technical systems holistically. He also highlights the shift towards decentralized architecture and the collaborative role of platform engineering in modern enterprise architecture. Luca provides insights on how architects can act as coaches, impacting teams positively and ensuring strategic alignment with business goals. Finally, we address common challenges in implementing platform engineering and the future of architecture roles in an AI-driven landscape. The Role of Architects in Modern DevelopmentShifting Perceptions: From Technical to StrategicDecentralization and Empathy in ArchitectureBalancing Autonomy and Strategic OversightEffective Communication and PrioritizationEmbedding Architects in Engineering TeamsBalancing Agility and GovernanceDesigning at the Level of the Video PlayerCreating Empathy in ArchitectureOpen Discussions and Team CollaborationPlatform Engineering DefinedImplementing Platform EngineeringThe Future of Architecture Roles Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup ------------------------- Extra Stuff: Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market?  What's in the report? Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market? ------------------------- Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/ ------------------------- Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/ ------------------------- Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/

    53 min
  5. 29 JUL

    S2 | E15 | The Business Architecture Edge with Whynde Kuehn

    In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we speak with Whynde Kuehn, a globally recognised expert in business architecture, strategy execution, and organisational transformation. Whynde shares her insights on why many transformation programs fail and how to leverage business architecture to bridge the gap between strategy and execution. We discuss the evolving role of architects in driving cross-functional collaboration, the importance of strategic alignment, and practical steps for establishing and measuring the effectiveness of a business architecture function. Key takeaways include the critical success factors for business architecture, addressing organizational silos, and the future of the architecture profession in the age of AI and automation. Staying Relevant in Disruptive TimesThe Value of Business ArchitectureBusiness vs. Enterprise ArchitectureBuilding a Business Architecture FunctionMeasuring the Effectiveness of Business ArchitectureChallenges in Strategy to ExecutionImproving Strategy to ExecutionCultural and Strategic ChangesAccountability and TransparencyCross-Functional CollaborationCreating a PlaybookThe Role of Business ArchitectsChallenges in Cross-Functional CollaborationPractical Steps for IntegrationFuture of Business and Enterprise Architecture More Whynde stuff: Meet Whynde (2:44 video): https://bit.ly/meet-whynde Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whynde-kuehn/ bizarchmastery.com S2Etransformation.com strategyintoreality.com Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup ------------------------- Extra Stuff: Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market?  What's in the report? Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market? ------------------------- Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/ ------------------------- Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/ ------------------------- Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/

    46 min
  6. 15 JUL

    S2 | E14 | EA Skills of the Future with Rubi Kaur - Chief Enterprise Architect at Lloyds Banking Group

    In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we sit down with Ruby Kaur, an award-winning enterprise architect and strategy manager, to discuss the essential skills required for future enterprise architects (EAs) and the importance of gender diversity in the field. Ruby shares her journey from a STEM student to Chief Enterprise Architect at Lloyd's Banking Group, emphasizing the significance of having both technical skills and business acumen. The conversation also covers key topics like sustainability in technology, how to foster collaboration and productivity in hybrid work environments, and the evolving role of EAs in driving business objectives. Ruby offers valuable insights on encouraging more women to enter the profession, developing an interconnected technology strategy, and maintaining relevance amidst rapid technological change. The Evolution of Enterprise ArchitectureSustainability in Technology and ArchitecturPromoting Gender Diversity in Enterprise ArchitectureEncouraging Women in Tech: Challenges and SolutionsDesigning Technology for Seamless CollaborationEmerging Collaboration ToolsChallenges with Tool IntegrationImportance of Digital AdvocatesBalancing Information OverloadFuture of Low-Code and No-Code PlatformsEnterprise Architecture's Role in Modern WorkplacesSkills for Future Enterprise Architects Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup ------------------------- Extra Stuff: Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market?  What's in the report? Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market? ------------------------- Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/ ------------------------- Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/ ------------------------- Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/

    41 min
  7. 1 JUL

    S2 | E13 | Sustainable Technology with Oliver Cronk - Technology Director at Scott Logic

    In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we are joined by Oliver Cronk, Technology Director at Scott Logic. The conversation delves into the challenges and solutions of sustainable technology. Oliver shares his insights on the importance of reducing technology's environmental impact, aligning business goals with sustainability, and the crucial role of critical thinking for architects in today's world. Discussions also cover pragmatic AI applications, responsible AI development, and the future role of architects amid advancing technologies. Understanding Sustainable TechnologyThe Role of Enterprise Architects in SustainabilityEmerging Regulations and Corporate ESG GoalsTech Carbon Standard and Its ImpactResponsible AI DevelopmentGeopolitical Impacts on Tech CompaniesTrust and Governance in AIThe Role of Architects in AI ImplementationAI's Potential and RisksFuture of the Architect ProfessionPractical AI Applications in EnterprisesGovernance and Ethical Standards in AI Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup ------------------------- Extra Stuff: Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market?  What's in the report? Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market? ------------------------- Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/ ------------------------- Follow the Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformational-blueprints-podcast/ ------------------------- Follow Synaxia Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synaxia-group/

    46 min
  8. 17 JUN

    S2 | E12 | Legacy Systems Modernization and the role of Architecture Vikram Karumbaiah - Head of Architecture at Tenerity

    In this episode of Transformational Blueprints, we speak with Vikram Karumbaiah, Head of Architecture with 25 years of experience, about the challenges and strategies involved in modernizing legacy systems. Vikram shares his journey from handling Y2K issues to leading a team of architects at Tenerity, a company that provides loyalty programs, customer engagement, and identity protection solutions. They discuss the hidden costs of maintaining legacy systems, security risks, and the importance of involving business processes in modernization efforts. Vikram also offers insights into the key attributes of a great architect and the essential methodologies and frameworks for successful system modernization. Understanding 10: Loyalty Programs and Customer EngagementThe Role of an ArchitectModernizing Legacy Systems: Hidden Costs and ChallengesSecurity Risks in Legacy SystemsCommon Objections to ModernizationUnderstanding NPS and CSAT ScoresCommon Mistakes in ModernizationChange Management StrategiesFrameworks and Methodologies for ModernizationAdvice for Aspiring ArchitectsFuture of Architecture and AI Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SynaxiaGroup ------------------------- Vikram's recommended reading Book - "The culture Map"** by Erin MeyerHMRC Legacy system budget - https://www.theregister.com/2021/01/22/hmcr_pandemic_cost_are_45/IRS - ⁠Individual master file - https://taxpolicycenter.org/briefing-book/what-technology-does-irs-use#:~:text=The IMF is integral to,trained in ALC and COBOL.⁠Book - "Serverless as a Game Changer" by Joseph EmisonInvertse conway's law - https://www.happyporch.com/articles/posts/the-power-of-software-shaping-organizations-through-inverse-conway-s-law/⁠ Martin fowler - Patterns of legacy displacementVibe Coding - https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/27/technology/personaltech/vibecoding-ai-software-programming.htmlCompute over data (CoD) - ⁠Bacalhau ------------------------- Extra Stuff: Do you want a copy of our Architecture Market?  What's in the report? Who's hiring the most architects in your region?Gender diversity statisticsIs demand for architects increasing or decreasing?What are the key trends in the architecture market? ------------------------- Get in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-michaels/ ------------------------- Follow the Podcast:...

    41 min

About

Welcome to "Transformational Blueprints", the podcast where we delve into the world of technology architecture, career growth, leadership, and digital transformation challenges. According to McKinsey, BCG, KPMG and Bain & Company, the risk of digital transformations failure falls somewhere between 70% and 95%. Join us each week as we sit down with Architecture experts and thought leaders to discuss their journeys, successes, and obstacles they've overcome in an attempt to reduce that figure. Hosted by Mario Michaels, Founder of Synaxia Group this podcast is essential listening for anyone looking to stay ahead in the world of technology. Don't forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast platform!