How can I get through this?
Question:
I work as a software developer and some people, at project management level, had give me the responsibility of designing a system knowing that I don't have experience as a designer. I got tired of tell them that we need an experience architect because the system they want is critical for the client's business. But it seems that they don't care about this and I think that they're expecting that I assume the responsibility, even though that I'm clueless and already tell them that I don't know how to do this. So, I don't know what to do. I just wanted to share my situation and perhaps someone had been in a similar position before.
Thanks.
Answer:
Don't be discouraged. This is an opportunity for you to learn and excel in an area that you have absolutely no experience in. Furthermore, it will enhance your technical skills and if you do a good job, you can probably earn a promotion. Believe me, they dont expect you do know everything.
Since the project is critical to your business you'll first need to research if your company follows any specific software development methodologies or frameworks. This will help guide you through the different project phases. (Planning, Design, Testing, Maintanance) It's probably wise to consult with the project managers for further insight and understanding. Remember, use your resources and anytime you get stuck, don't hesitate to ask your co-workers for advice.
Try to do as much research to arm yourself with knowledge as you can on the project and just do your best. That's really all that any of us can do.
Meanwhile, perhaps you could also start seriously looking at other places to seek employment from.
These people do not know how to manage their employees properly and you know who will be expected to take the heat if this doesn't go so well, right?
Nonsense; they don't deserve you if that's how they do business.
Sounds like they're trying to save money by avoiding having to pay someone else who really has the experience to do this properly.
Generally, I am a very optimistic person that likes to look at the best sides of everything. But in this case, I have been there and done that and I think the first answer given is more likely to happen. That is, you study, try to figure out your job, something goes wrong, and you probably WILL get the blame. I hope the second answer is more real in your case, but I seriously doubt it. People that won't spend the money to do the job right by getting the qualified person you really need rarely have the maturity to understand and appreciate the position you're in. You are unconciously being set up to fail. Be careful. Learn as much as you can, and be looking for other opportunities.
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