End-2-End Enterprise Architecture (E2EEA) reposted this
Principle Architect | Transformation Leader | Solving Complex IT Challenges | VMware VCDX #222
The news that Broadcom is discontinuing the VMware Certified Design Expert (VCDX) program has stirred a lot of emotions for me. While I may have stepped away from the VMware community for a few years as my career took another path, the skills I gained during my VCDX journey have been a constant driver in every part of my professional life. Achieving VCDX wasn’t just a technical accomplishment; it was a transformative experience. The process of designing, refining, and defending a system taught me how to approach architecture holistically—balancing technical needs with operational realities, costs, and scalability. It instilled a mindset of critical thinking and design excellence that I carry into every project, no matter the platform or technology. Now that my role has brought me back into a more active relationship with Broadcom, VMware, and the VCDX community, I find myself valuing every second of that process even more. The confidence to articulate ideas, defend decisions, and collaborate effectively with diverse teams is something I directly attribute to my VCDX journey. The announcement of the program’s end is bittersweet. On one hand, it’s a reminder of the community and sense of accomplishment the VCDX represented. On the other, it underscores the lasting impact it has had—not just on me, but on so many others who took part. To those who made the VCDX possible, and to the community that grew around it, thank you. The lessons learned, friendships made, and opportunities opened will continue to shape the industry and the careers of those who were lucky enough to be part of this journey. The program may be coming to a close, but its legacy endures.
Well said. I have conflicting thoughts about VCDX. On the one hand, when I was at VMware when this was being born (around 2008ish?), I was on the "let's simplify things" side of the house and, back then, felt that VCDX made things more complex. And I didn't want this to be another costly barrier to VMware adoption, a topic I spoke about for years. But of course, the world outside VMware is complex. So, on the other hand, I saw VCDX as a grass roots initiative by PSO folks who had nothing but good intentions and a passion for helping customers, partners, and everyone in the ecosystem, from VMUGs to answering questions on the community message board. I don't think the world has got any less complex, but maybe Broadcom has less passion and fewer grassroots than before. Peace and best wishes to all VCDX!
Benedikt Mayer Martin Hosken Mohammed Salem you are the other 3 x VCDX I know , you all have my admiration. A new chapter begins . Maybe Aws golden jacket ? 🧥😇🥰
Matthew Bunce Thanks for sharing. VCDX is family. It was always imperfect, but it made us better! More than anything else I have done in my 30 years of professional work, the VMware Certified Design Expert community keeps colliding with me! We challenge one another, question assumptions, and force change for good. Thanks for being my brother!
Matthew Bunce well said. A lot of memories and so many good people... I shared some thoughts here as well. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/liorkamrat_vmware-vcdx-vcdx-activity-7267392813556752384-xVIn?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android
Its a great achievement no doubt and have known a number of VCDX over the years. But I do see this like everything as something that is eventually commoditised and therefore, won't carry the weight moving forward... be extremely proud that you kick started an entirely new way of deploying and managing IT infra and why regardless of Broadcom's tactics, VMware isn't going anywhere... :)
Well said 👌
Wow! VCDX was such an awesome program! Respect to all VCDX-ers!
Broadcom now claims the email was a mistake. https://www.theregister.com/2024/11/28/broadcom_vmware_vcdx_snafu/ That's good news - but also worrying to those that rely on BC not to make mistakes?