Discovering the Architecture Middle Path

In this episode, Dr. Sanjiva Weerawarana and Asanka Abeysinghe are joined by WSO2 Chief AI Officer Rania Khalaf to discuss what the agentic enterprise really means. The conversation looks beyond AI pilots and explores the architectural foundations needed to make agents practical at enterprise scale. Topics include agents as first-class actors, the platform capabilities required to support them, and why identity, policy, observability, and audit matter in an agentic world. The episode closes with a practical view of what architects should start doing now.🔥 Key topics covered: What an agentic enterprise actually meansAgents as first-class actors in the enterpriseWhy AI pilots don’t scale without architectural foundationsThe platform foundations needed to support agents at scale ○ APIs, Integration, Identity ○ Data (KBs, context graphs, data lakes) ○ Agent control plane Identity, policy, observability, and audit in an agentic world What architects should do nowAdditional reading: https://wso2.com/library/blogs/agentic-enterprise-with-wso2/HostsSanjiva WeerawaranaLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjivaweerawarana/Twitter: @sanjivaMedium: https://medium.com/@sanjiva.weerawaranaAsanka AbeysingheLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/asankaabeysingheTwitter: @asankamaBlog: https://blog.architect2architect.com/Medium: https://asankama.medium.com/Rania KhalafLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raniakhalaf/

In this episode, Dr. Sanjiva Weerawarana and Asanka Abeysinghe demystify what “agents” really are and why architects should care. They walk through core concepts and terminology—agents, agent loops, prompts, context, memory, RAG, tools, MCP, and skills—and discuss how agents observe, act, and evaluate. The conversation compares agents to traditional systems, explores where agents fit in modern architectures (including solo agents, agent-to-agent patterns, and multi-agent setups), and looks at orchestration challenges. They also cover risks, guardrails, and governance, and close with practical takeaways on what architects should start doing now, with a hook into the next episode on the agentic enterprise.🔥 Key topics covered:What are ‘agents’Terms: Agent, agent loop (e.g. chain of thought), prompt (system prompt, role, user prompt), context, context graph, memory, RAG, tools, MCP, skills, observe & test → evaluate, interfaces (or how to talk to the agent), solo agents, A2A, multi-agents, agent orchestrationAgents vs traditional systems Where agents fit inRisks, guardrails and governance What architects should do now Hook to the next session, ‘Agentic Enterprise.’ 🎙️HostsSanjiva WeerawaranaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjivaweerawarana/Twitter: @sanjivaMedium: https://medium.com/@sanjiva.weerawaranaAsanka AbeysingheLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/asankaabeysingheTwitter: @asankamaBlog: https://blog.architect2architect.com/Medium: https://asankama.medium.com/#wso2 #genai #microservices

In this episode, hosts Dr. Sanjiva Weerawarana and Asanka Abeysinghe explore the lost art of deep work and why it is critical for architects. They discuss how constant interruptions, shallow work, and overreliance on AI shortcuts can undermine clear thinking and architectural quality. The conversation focuses on creating space for focused thinking, applying first principles, and how architects and leaders can protect deep work in today’s noisy enterprise environment.🔥 Topics covered:● Why deep work is rare but essential for architects● Shallow work, AI shortcuts, and the illusion of progress● Analog tools, doodles, and notebooks, whiteboards as catalysts for clarity● Protecting focus in a distracted, calendar-driven world● Deep work, first principles, and better architectural decisions● Why leaders and architects must model and defend deep workHostsSanjiva WeerawaranaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjivaweerawarana/Twitter: @sanjivaMedium: https://medium.com/@sanjiva.weerawaranaAsanka AbeysingheLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asankaabeysingheTwitter: @asankamaBlog: https://blog.architect2architect.com/Medium: https://asankama.medium.com/#wso2 #genai #microservices

In this special live podcast episode, Dr. Sanjiva Weerawarana and Asanka Abeysinghe sit down with Selyna Peiris (Director and Chief Growth Officer, Selyn Group) and Miguel Cuñat (Founder, The Pekoe Trail). They explore how brands are built—through people, vision, and purpose. The conversation delves into personal and product branding, offering a fresh perspective on why brand awareness is crucial in the modern digital era.🔥 Key Discussion Topics:● Why brand matters for architects: shaping technology choices, trust, and adoption● The connection between personal brands, product brands, and platform strategy● Building authentic, purpose-driven brands that outlast individuals● Navigating identity and succession in business, technology, and tourism● Productizing innovation, "ecosystems of brands," and balancing legacy with adaptation● The human side of brands: storytelling, trust, and emotional connection● Real-world examples: The Pekoe Trail's collaborative journey, Selyn’s social impact, and WSO2's open source legacyHostsSanjiva WeerawaranaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjivaweerawarana/Twitter: @sanjivaMedium: https://medium.com/@sanjiva.weerawaranaAsanka AbeysingheLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asankaabeysingheTwitter: @asankamaBlog: https://blog.architect2architect.com/Medium: https://asankama.medium.com/Miguel CuñatLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miguel-cunat-40b992155/Selyna PeirisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/selynapeiris/#WSO2 #BrandBuilding #DigitalTransformation

In this live episode, recorded at WSO2Con Europe 2025, hosts Sanjiva and Asanka are joined by Jeremy Schneider, Senior Partner & Co-Head of Global Software & High-Tech Practice at McKinsey & Company, to explore the challenges and opportunities of platformless modernization and the cultural transformation required for organizations to become software-driven. They discuss the importance of leadership in understanding technology, the "build vs. buy" debate in platformless architecture, and how organizations can empower teams with autonomy while maintaining governance. The conversation also dives into the impact of AI on software development, with insights on rethinking workflows, data foundations, and organizational structures to fully leverage its potential. Key Discussion Points:● The cultural transformation needed to become a software-driven organization.● The "build vs. buy" debate in platformless architecture.How AI is reshaping software development and the challenges of adoption.● Balancing freedom and governance for developers and teams.● The importance of a product mindset for long-term modernization success.HostsSanjiva WeerawaranaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjivaweerawarana/Twitter: @sanjivaMedium: https://medium.com/@sanjiva.weerawaranaAsanka AbeysingheLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/asankaabeysingheTwitter: @asankamaBlog: https://blog.architect2architect.com/Medium: https://asankama.medium.com/Jeremy SchneiderLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremydschneider/

In this episode, Sanjiva and Asanka dive into the role of architects in modern enterprises, exploring their responsibilities, influence, and evolving scope. They discuss the different types of architects—enterprise, solution, software, and platform architects—their impact on technology strategy, and how they collaborate. The conversation also covers how architects balance governance with agility, drive modernization, and adapt to emerging trends like AI and automation. This episode provides a practical perspective on what it means to be an architect in today’s complex enterprise landscape. Discussion Points ● Introduction – What it means to be an architect, common misconceptions, and why this discussion matters. ● Core Responsibilities – Defining technical vision, aligning with business goals, governance vs. agility, and enabling teams. ● Types of Architects – Business, enterprise, solution, software, and platform architects; their roles, collaboration, and impact. ● Architects as Strategic Enablers – The shift from control to enablement, driving modernization, and influencing cloud adoption and platform engineering. ● Future of the Architect Role – The impact of AI and automation, increasing business awareness, and essential skills for modern architects. ● Conclusion – Recap of responsibilities, how architects can stay effective, and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation. HostsSanjiva WeerawaranaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjivaweerawarana/Twitter: @sanjivaMedium: https://medium.com/@sanjiva.weerawaranaAsanka AbeysingheLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/asankaabeysingheTwitter: @asankamaBlog: https://blog.architect2architect.com/Medium: https://asankama.medium.com/

In this episode, hosts Sanjiva and Asanka are joined by special guest Daniel Bryant to explore the evolving practice of platform engineering through the lens of software architecture. They discuss why platform engineering should have a product mindset with developers as its primary customers, how platform and software architectures are symbiotic, and why good APIs, abstractions, and automation are essential for success. The conversation also highlights the role of internal developer platforms (IDPs) in enabling efficient and scalable software delivery. - Platform, definition - Platform engineering should have a product focus: developers are customers - Platform architecture and software architecture are symbiotic - Good APIs, abstractions, and automation are the prize for everything - Platform engineering - Internal developer platform Hosts: Sanjiva Weerawarana LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjivaweerawarana/ Twitter: @sanjiva Medium: https://medium.com/@sanjiva.weerawarana Asanka Abeysinghe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asankaabeysinghe Twitter: @asankama Blog: https://blog.architect2architect.com/ Medium: https://asankama.medium.com/

In this episode, Sanjiva and Asanka explore the power of first principle thinking and why it’s a must-have approach for architects. They break down how this method helps tackle complex problems by focusing on fundamental truths rather than relying on assumptions or best practices. From root cause analysis to iterative refinement, they discuss how architects can apply first principles to design innovative and scalable solutions. Tune in to rethink your approach and elevate your architectural decision-making! Intro - recap  Understanding first principles (we spend more time here) Goals, problems, diagnosis, design, apply (doing) Why architects need first principle thinking (frame the architects role in the enterprise ) Architects are key decision-makers in technology strategy and modernization. They must navigate complex organizational constraints (e.g., cost, scalability, and compliance). Challenges in adopting first principles in enterprise  Organizational resistance to change. Biases and assumptions within the architecture team, fear of unknown  Managing risk when challenging traditional practices. Solutions to overcome these barriers (e.g., fostering a culture of curiosity,  collaboration, meritocracy ). Conclusion

In this episode, Sanjiva and Asanka explore the evolving landscape of digital modernization. They discuss how modernization is not a one-time project but an ongoing journey, transitioning from digital transformation to digital modernization. The conversation delves into various modernization styles, such as rehosting, replatforming, rebuilding, and replacing, and addresses challenges like cost, skills, and organizational resistance. They also highlight the role of platforms and AI in accelerating modernization, with a focus on cost savings, risk reduction, and business agility. ● Modernization is not a project it’s a journey ● From digital transformation to digital modernization ● Why modernization ● Modernization styles ○ Rehost/Lift & shift ○ Replatform/Lift and reshape/encapsulate ○ Rebuild/rewrite/redesign/strangler pattern ○ Replace/COTS/SaaS ● Horizontal(layer or system) / vertical (application) ● Challenges - cost/time/skills, org resistance, balance innovation and stability ● Role of a platform in modernization ● AI to turbo charge modernization Hosts: Sanjiva Weerawarana LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjivaweerawarana/ Twitter: @sanjiva Medium: https://medium.com/@sanjiva.weerawarana Asanka Abeysinghe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asankaabeysinghe Twitter: @asankama Blog: https://blog.architect2architect.com/ Medium: https://asankama.medium.com/

In this special edition episode, hosts Sanjiva and Asanka are joined by special guest Paul for an in-person recording in the studio. Sanjiva leads the discussion while Paul and Asanka, co-authors of the cell-based architecture, share their insights and experiences. Together, they explore the core principles of cell-based architecture, its practical applications, and how it reshapes modern software architecture. Discussion points : History, how did it start?  Concepts, cells, components, cell gateway, cell boundaries, communication  DDD and cells  Two pizza teams and cells  Benefits of adopting CBA  Choreo as a reference implementation  Projects  Using CBA for control plane (Choreo V3) Future trends Links: CBA paper: https://github.com/wso2/reference-architecture/blob/master/reference-architecture-cell-based.md Hosts: Sanjiva Weerawarana LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjivaweerawarana/ Twitter: @sanjiva Medium: https://medium.com/@sanjiva.weerawarana Asanka Abeysinghe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asankaabeysinghe Twitter: @asankama Blog: https://blog.architect2architect.com/ Medium: https://asankama.medium.com/

In this episode, hosts Sanjiva and Asanka are excited to have Christian Posta, a Service Mesh expert and Global Field CTO at Solo.io, join them. Together, they will explore the question: Is full lifecycle API management dead? They will discuss Christian’s article and the evolving landscape of API management. The conversation will also cover the Platformless manifesto and the important role of Internal Developer Platforms in modern software development. Lastly, Christian will share his thoughts on service mesh.   Links: Christian’s article: https://dzone.com/articles/full-lifecycle-api-management-is-dead Platformless manifesto: https://github.com/wso2/reference-architecture/blob/master/platformless.md Cilium-based service mesh: https://wso2.com/library/blogs/how-we-implemented-zero-trust-in-choreo/ Chapters:  1. Full Lifecycle API Management 2. Internal Developer Platforms (IDP) 3. Connecting Platformless with API Management and IDPs 4. History and future trends of service mesh

Sanjiva and Asanka welcome Gregor Hohpe and Frank Leymann to explore the modern landscape of platforms. This episode explores the strategic value of platforms, their role in creating platforms, and key architectural principles. Learn about the importance of APIs, cloud native middleware, and developer experience (DX), along with operational considerations like governance and CI/CD. They’ll explore real-world examples, the debate on building vs. buying platforms, and future trends shaped by AI and machine learning. Tune in for an in-depth discussion that will cover: ○ Why platforms are hot right now, defining modern platforms, and the "dark matter" analogy ○ Types of platforms, their strategic value, and how they create thriving ecosystems ○ Building and managing platforms (architecture, engineering, APIs, middleware, and DX) ○ Operational considerations (governance, platform discovery, and CI/CD pipelines) ○ How platforms empower architects to drive innovation ○ Case studies, best practices, and build vs. buy ○ AI, machine learning, and other emerging technologies 🔗 Links - ▻ Platform Strategy Book (by Gregor): https://a.co/d/0iz0OpMX ▻ Platformless Manifesto (by Sanjiva and Asanka): https://github.com/wso2/reference-architecture/blob/master/platformless.md Hosts: Sanjiva Weerawarana LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjivaweerawarana/ Twitter: @sanjiva Medium: https://medium.com/@sanjiva.weerawarana Asanka Abeysinghe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asankaabeysinghe Twitter: @asankama Blog: https://blog.architect2architect.com/ Medium: https://asankama.medium.com/

We dive deep into the next evolution following our platformless discussion. Discover the essence of the Business Service Platform – the crucial glue connecting technology platforms with digital experiences. Learn about Business SDKs and the path to achieving a robust platform, emphasizing technology as the backbone, modularity, and APIs, events, and data integrations. We also cover Domain-Driven Design (DDD) and Cell-Based Architecture (CBA), alongside essential elements like discovery, governance, marketplaces, devportals, versioning, dependency management, and CI/CD. Join us to understand the benefits and navigate the future of enterprise architecture.

Join us for a new episode where Sanjiva and Asanka, two contributors to the platformless manifesto, discuss the concept of platformless in enterprise software engineering. They explain the origin and teamwork behind platformless, walking viewers through its key principles and four main technology pillars: API-first, cloud native middleware, platform engineering, and developer experience. Whether you're considering building from scratch or investing in a platformless solution, this conversation provides valuable insights for architects. Don't miss it! What is Platformless? Learn more at: https://wso2.com/what-is-platformless/ Contribute to the Platformless Manifesto: https://github.com/wso2/reference-architecture/blob/master/platformless.md

In this episode, hosts Sanjiva and Asanka delve into the intricate world of enterprise software engineering, sharing insights gained from their extensive experience working with large enterprises. Join them as they explore the challenges of integrating large systems like CRMs and ERP in digital business transformation, discussing data integration, the impact on organizational culture, and future trends.

In this episode we delve deep into the critical issues architects face when building platforms. Tackling everything from hidden opportunity costs to the illusion of completeness, we provide an architect's perspective on why platform projects often fail. Don't miss our insights on managing complexity, running a lean team, and the financial pitfalls to avoid. Tune in to uncover the nuances that could make or break your platform architecture. Topics Covered: - Time to market: the hidden opportunity costs - Best practices in a box: the illusion of completeness - Outsourcing complexity: the challenges of building and managing - Streamlined operations: the lean team advantage - Avoiding upfront costs: the financial pitfall

Join us for another episode of the ‘Discovering the Architecture Middle Path’ podcast. In this episode, our hosts Sanjiva and Asanka explore platform engineering, breaking down the buzz around platforms and delving into the architectural aspects that make them strong and scalable. Drawing from their hands-on experience, they discuss the relationship between architecture and engineering within platforms, covering concepts like modularity, microservices, and event-driven design. They also touch on important factors such as security and scalability. Whether you're an aspiring architect or an experienced engineer, gain practical insights to build or refine your platforms for the future.

In this episode, we explore the complex interplay between APIs and Services, including their distinct versions and life cycles. We clarify the differences between managed or business APIs and service endpoints. The discussion also touches on domain, experience, and utility APIs, direction-based communication, gateway necessities, and the use of eBPF+MTLS as a minimal observer without a sidecar. Join us for a concise yet insightful look at these essential architectural components.

In this episode, hosts Sanjiva and Asanka dive into the technical intricacies of pragmatic application architecture. Join them as they explore microservices, miniservices, and monolithic architectures, examining their real-world applications and organizational impacts. Discover how these architectural patterns influence the design and structuring of business domains. Take a technical deep-dive into service sizes and gain insights to make informed architectural decisions for your projects.

In the first episode of the "Discovering the Architecture Middlepath" podcast, Sanjiva and Asanka explore the power of abstractions in software systems, how they simplify complex concepts, and how they change the way we build and understand technology. This episode delves into historical examples such as abstract data types, relational databases, and Kubernetes, showcasing their transformative impact on the software industry.