So on the lighter side of Technology.
I like to think what make up a great SharePoint Architect. In many cases it drives to skills and competencies. I totally agree, you have to have the right knowledge to even get started, along with a willingness to learn. With SharePoint you never stop learning.
But there is more, I think a big part of a successful SharePoint Architect is Mindset.
Jack Burton = SharePoint Architect
Let’s just take the quotes Jack say’s in Big Trouble in Little China, and apply them to common SharePoint issues.
Examples
Situation: SharePoint is having problems, it is down, there is some disaster that the business needs solved RIGHT NOW:
Jack Burton: Okay. You people sit tight, hold the fort and keep the home fires burning. And if we’re not back by dawn… call the president.
SharePoint Architects like to quote themselves, in emails, blogs, speaking events:
Jack Burton: You know what ol’ Jack Burton always says at a time like this? Thunder: Who? Jack Burton: Jack Burton. *Me*!
When dealing with a challenge or issue, a SharePoint Architect is able to tackle it without doubting themselves:
Jack Burton: Feel pretty good. I’m not, uh, I’m not scared at all. I just feel kind of… feel kind of invincible. Wang Chi: Me, too. I got a very positive attitude about this. Jack Burton: Good, me too.
A SharePoint Architect is always ready to tackle and issue:
Wang Chi: You ready, Jack? Jack Burton: I was born ready.
Why do I say this….it is all about Attitude. Keeping a positive mindset of support, the tool, your skills, and interaction with your customers. These are all critical with getting the job done, but not driving yourself crazy. So yes a SharePoint Architect needs strong tech skills, but a proper mindset to be successful.
Just don’t name your SharePoint server “Pork Chop Express”!