What is an architect?
Combining IT expertise with leadership and management skills, an architect is responsible for overseeing the technical systems and structures of a business or organisation.
Responsible for overseeing business IT projects from end to end, an architect acts as a link between developers, designers and the wider business.
There are four main types of technical architect, each with differing specialisms:
- Software architects – also known as applications architects – lead specific elements of an IT project, with the responsibility for carrying out technical tasks
- Solutions architects lead whole IT projects. The role is more senior than that of a software architect
- Enterprise architects are responsible for the overall strategy and execution of a company’s IT systems and direction
- Infrastructure architects are responsible for IT projects which involve hardware and equipment
What are the key responsibilities of an architect?
The specific requirements and responsibilities of the architect role will vary depending on the focus of the company, but will typically include:
- Identifying systems and software requirements alongside business stakeholders and external teams
- Identifying software and hardware requirements
- Outlining proposed plans and improvements to designers and developers
- Allocating tasks and organising workflows for the wider technical team
- Overseeing and monitoring project progress, ensuring completion is to the agreed timescale
- Reporting project progress back to key stakeholders
- Undertaking technical tasks if required
- Suggesting future systems improvements and developments
What skills and qualifications does an architect require?
To work as a technical architect, you will need to have a degree in an associated subject such as IT, computer science or software development. A postgraduate qualification in these fields may also suffice to equip you with the technical knowledge the role requires.
Combining technical and managerial elements, the role of a technical architect requires a range of skills, including:
- A concise and up to date knowledge of software and systems, hardware and programming languages
- An understanding of IT legislation, standards and industry best practice
- Analytical and problem solving skills, with the ability to identify and resolve any potential systems issues before they cause a problem
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to propose and explain concepts to business stakeholders
- The ability to work under pressure to tight deadlines
- Building strong relationships between in-house teams and external teams to ensure each project runs to time
Experience in the industry is also essential in becoming a technical architect. Roles such as programming, testing and systems development can all provide the skills and experience which can lead to a career as an architect.
