Your system design roadmap clashes with a new tech trend—how do you navigate this? I’ve faced this dilemma before, and what worked for me was focusing on adaptability. First, I evaluate the trend’s real impact—is it a game-changer or just hype? Then, I find points of alignment with our existing system, identifying where integration makes sense without disrupting core functionality. Finally, I take an incremental approach, testing and iterating to ensure smooth adoption.

I would take a step back and figure out the best way to integrate it without derailing everything. 1. First, I’d check if this trend is actually useful or just hype. Does it align with the business goals? Will it make the system more efficient, scalable, or secure? Understand how much of the existing system this trend would disrupt; based on that I will figure out the required rethinking of whole architecture. 2. If the trend is promising, modularize it, so that transition isn’t a huge pain later. 3. If the trend is worth it, the roadmap needs tweaks. Make the key changes without messing up key milestones. 4. Track performance, user impact, and overall stability. At the end of the day, it’s about balancing innovation with practicality.

"Change is the only constant in tech," but not every new trend is necessarily better or the right fit for your system. When a new technology clashes with your existing roadmap, the best approach is to evaluate before integrating. 1️⃣ Research & Understand – Why is this trend emerging? Is it addressing scalability, security, efficiency, or just market hype? 2️⃣ Assess Its Value – Identify if it genuinely enhances your system or if it's solving a problem that doesn't exist for you. 3️⃣ Explore Integration Feasibility – If beneficial, analyze how it can be incorporated with minimal disruption. 4️⃣ Draw Parallels – If it’s not a fit, understanding its principles can still provide insights for future adaptability.

Tech trends are a part and parcel of technological advances and having experts on the team becomes a bonus in such situations. Its of utmost importance to keep up with the tech trends to anticipate such roadblocks earlier.