• Domain-Driven Design (DDD) says that we should be mindful of domain models and embed them in our code.
• Design Patterns say that we should know a catalog of patterns so we can solve recurring problems that arise in object-oriented (OO) code.
• Software Architecture says that unless we are mindful of large-scale patterns and models, then our systems will not achieve the qualities we seek.
• Test-Driven Design (TDD) says that we should structure our code so that it can be more easily tested.
• Programming styles (functional, OO, procedural, etc.) say what the core abstractions of our programs should be.

The common denominator here is that software developers are expected to keep in mind many abstract yet complex models that constrain the code they write. In some ways, these constraints are a burden, and in other ways, they are the light that illuminates a path forward.

I will discuss an idea called Model-Minded Development that generalizes across DDD, design patterns, architecture, TDD, and coding styles. The defining characteristic of senior software developers is their facility with Model-Minded Development, and it enables them to operate at an advanced level.

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Modern service-oriented architecture (SOA) systems force teams to reconcile a multitude of organizational and technology decisions. With each decision, the team reaffirms allegiance to its chosen message passing, platform governance, and quality assurance philosophy. Which side are you on: Centralized SOA or Decentralized SOA?

During this session, we will explore essential topics in modern SOA including governance, message passing strategies, orchestration, “smart” and “dumb” pipes, quality assurance strategies, deployment, and many other topics. For each topic, we’ll cover the most important information you need to know and debate the pros and cons of a centralized and decentralized approach.

And because it’s Michael and George hosting this session, we can’t just leave it at that. In the spirit of the American Federalists (strong central government) vs. Antifederalists (decentralized government) of the 1790s, George, playing the role of a modern Jefferson, will advocate for decentralized SOA while Michael, as a modern Hamilton, will attempt to convince you, the audience, that centralized SOA is the best path forward. This is a session you will not want to miss!

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