This episode is dedicated to John Sherwood (1947-2025) who founded the SABSA Institute with David Lynas, where he was the Chief Architect of the SABSA methodology. A pioneer in his own right, John’s legacy will continue through the future efforts of the SABSA Institute.

The path from code to comprehensive security architecture rarely follows a straight line. In this enlightening conversation, security architects Stephen Bradley and Bonnie Demeyer reveal how their diverse backgrounds—Stephen as an electronics engineer turned software developer, and Bonnie from sales to project management—converged to create innovative approaches to enterprise security.

When traditional security functions operated like "police raids" on projects, Stephen and Bonnie pioneered a collaborative approach that engaged teams during design phases rather than punishing them after implementation. This fundamental shift transformed security from an obstacle to a valuable service, seamlessly integrated into development processes.

Their breakthrough came through visualization. "Human comprehensibility works very well with visual media," Stephen explains, highlighting how diagram-based approaches dramatically outperform text-heavy documentation. By combining The Open Group ArchiMate® modeling language with SABSA (Sherwood Applied Business Security Architecture) methodology, they created a powerful framework that bridges technical and business perspectives.

This integration yields remarkable benefits for compliance challenges. Rather than wrestling with disconnected regulatory frameworks, their model-based approach normalizes requirements into a unified data structure, enabling organizations to identify gaps through automated queries rather than manual cross-referencing. The result? Consistent, traceable security implementations that support real business objectives.

For aspiring security architects, their advice emphasizes structured thinking, collaborative problem-solving, and confidence that persistence leads to solutions—even when the path isn't immediately clear. The most effective security professionals combine technical expertise with business acumen, communicating complex concepts clearly while demonstrating tangible value.

Want to explore these concepts further? Check out "Modeling Security with ArchiMate®" in The Open Group Library, or visit the SABSA Institute website to learn how visualization can transform your security practice.

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Copyright © The Open Group 2023-2025. All rights reserved.

What if the most valuable skill you could develop isn't a skill at all, but rather a mindset? Lifelong learning stands as the ultimate competitive advantage in our rapidly evolving world, and this episode unpacks exactly what it means to embrace continuous growth.

We explore how lifelong learning extends far beyond formal education into a daily practice of curiosity and openness. You'll discover the surprising cognitive benefits—how regular mental stimulation improves memory and potentially reduces risk of decline—alongside the emotional rewards of mastering new skills and connecting with fellow learners.

For technology professionals navigating constantly shifting landscapes, we offer targeted strategies: following emerging tech trends, expanding your programming language repertoire, contributing to open source projects, and building a demonstration portfolio that speaks louder than any resume. New graduates receive practical advice on balancing technical abilities with crucial soft skills, leveraging free educational resources, and establishing sustainable learning habits that compound over time.

The episode highlights must-read books that will transform your approach to growth, including Carol Dweck's mindset-shifting classic and James Clear's guide to habit formation. Throughout, we emphasize that lifelong learning isn't about perfection but progress—consistent small actions that accumulate into profound personal and professional development.

Ready to make the best investment possible—in yourself? Listen now, and discover how embracing lifelong learning can become your greatest strength in a world of constant change. What new skill will you begin developing today?

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Copyright © The Open Group 2023-2025. All rights reserved.

Doron Orbach, Director of Product Management for Enterprise Architecture at ServiceNow, shares insights from his 20+ year career in product and engineering, exploring how collaboration and continuous learning drive success in technology leadership.

• Experience in aligning ServiceNow's Common Service Data Model (CSDM) with Archimate standards
• First involvement with The Open Group through the IT4IT™ standard while at HP
• Active participation in The Open Group ArchiMate® Forum to influence and develop Enterprise Architecture standards
• Collaboration requires openness, listening, and finding common ground despite different perspectives
• Enterprise Architects must continuously learn about emerging technologies like AI to guide organizations
• Influence through collaboration rather than mandates is key to effective Enterprise Architecture
• When facing career roadblocks, focus on learning new skills and following your interests
• Personal connections and informal discussions at conferences provide invaluable insights
• Setting goals and taking concrete actions toward them leads to professional fulfillment

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Copyright © The Open Group 2023-2025. All rights reserved.