How I passed Salesforce Integration Architecture Designer Exam

As they say, "Success motivates action". After passing the Platform Developer 1 exam, I set out to attain the Integration Architecture Designer exam. 

By this time, I had a fair idea on the Salesforce ecosystem, but had many many questions (I still have). My friend Rajeev Venkitaraman came to help again, with his pointer that the Integration Pattern and Practices PDF is the bible for this certification. He was right, as he always is. :)

Before I even start studying the scope out the entire topic. The certification guide in the Salesforce trailhead comes to help here. This exercise gives me an idea on how long it will take me to study. I also went through the trailmix for this exam and authored a schedule. A month and a half - it seemed quite right - with my full time job and the summer approaching.

The next thing I do is set out to read the experiences of other exam takers. It also gives me a fair idea and some motivation. The following blogs gave me a good lead into my preparation:

https://leadtheforce.blogspot.com/2017/12/i-passed-salesforce-certified.html

http://gemmablezard.com/salesforce-certified-development-lifecycle-deployment-designer-exam-tips

http://santanuboral.blogspot.com/2017/12/passing-Development-lifecycle.html

https://automationchampion.com/2017/11/08/how-to-become-development-lifecycle-and-deployment-designer-certification/

http://www.salesforcechris.com/development-lifecycle-and-deployment-designer-study-guide/

Thanks a billion!

I set out to go thru the Trailhead. At the same time I also started reading the patterns and pratices pdf. It confused me the first time. But by the 3rd time it all started to make sense. As my friend Rajeev suggested, by the 4th time I got the entire picture and was able to connect the dots. 

Once I completed the Trailmix and reading the patterns document, I started watching videos on various topics. The Ladies Be Architects study group videos really helped me a lot. 

By the time I completed half of my preparation, I had already scheduled my exam on May 21st. 

My work experience helped me understand the topic conceptually, regarding various APIs. I just had to place those into Salesforce domain. I would not say it was easy. I took dedication and time.

I also had prepared charts and post-its (which I stuck on my wall) for easy reference. The one that really helped me get through most of the questions was this one:

The exam went without much trouble. The mock tests that I took from Propofs and various Quizlets helped in shape my foundation.

For those who are going to take the exam, work experience in an Enterprise setup will really help, but if you prepare well, you will be able to make it even without that. All the best!