http://blogs.msdn.com/b/nickmalik/archive/2012/06/22/conversational-antipatterns-on-message-boards.aspxArchitects argue.&#160; I have, over the past year, spent a good bit of time on LinkedIn Message boards.&#160; I’ve watched a lot of people argue.&#160; I’ve learned a great deal about Enterprise Architecture, and a few things about myself, as I’ve compareden-USTelligent Evolution Platform Developer Build (Build: 5.6.50428.7875)http://blogs.msdn.com/b/nickmalik/archive/2012/06/22/conversational-antipatterns-on-message-boards.aspx#10323246Sat, 23 Jun 2012 21:05:04 GMT91d46819-8472-40ad-a661-2c78acb4018c:10323246Peter Murchland<p>Nick</p> <p>Wonderful contribution - the work of a real architect - recognising patterns and assessing supportive vs destructive behaviours associated with use of these patterns, offering in an open and invitational way the opportunity for future improved performance. &nbsp;I should not expect less from a leading practitioner!!</p> <p>What spoke to me in this was a number of my own learnings from similar experiences, and some underlying principles which support the gaining of greater value from the patterns.</p> <p>Firstly, I would have to point out that I have learned more through honestly and openly addressing any of the challenges I have received to my latest thinking and ideas. &nbsp;Principle 1 - be open, be honest, be true to yourself, and be willing to admit being wrong</p> <p>I find that people respond better if I provide constructive critique ie, I describe my issues and concerns and offer an alternate articulation rather than simply telling them that they are wrong. &nbsp;Principle 2 - offer constructive critique</p> <p>I keep on finding that there is not a single right answer. &nbsp;There are multiple perspectives, and not just two the right one and the wrong one. &nbsp;The latter is what is often articulated and created. &nbsp;It polarises people rather than bringing them together to a shared understanding and commitment. &nbsp;Principle 3 - and not or</p> <p>A former colleague told me that his boss said communication is what other people hear, not what you say. &nbsp;If someone responds in a manner you don&#39;t expect, then consider the possibility that they did not appreciate your intended meaning and that there is an obligation on you to communicate it again in a different and hopefully clearer way. &nbsp;Here we need to recognise that language can be our worst enemy - that which we choose to use may fail to communicate our intended meaning. &nbsp;Principle 4 - take responsibility for clear communication</p> <p>If I am engaging with 10 people, then there are ten different mental models at play. &nbsp;Each is dynamic, potentially changing with each interaction. &nbsp;Hopefully, they become more aligned through interaction and provide the basis for shared understanding and better collaboration. &nbsp;it is important to honour each of the mental models at play and the people who own them. &nbsp;Principle 5 - offer respect and reciprocity</p> <div style="clear:both;"></div><img src="http://blogs.msdn.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=10323246" width="1" height="1">