What do you do if you want to excel in the future as a data architect?

If you envision a future in Data Architecture then it's important to understand the various skill (and career) subsets that fall under that umbrella. DBMS design and/or at least the fundamentals of it is important, with the level of granularity needed dependent on what your role or roles will be. If you are new to the industry, say less than 5 years in, start with data management in general, while absorbing everything you can about the direction distributed computing, containerized workloads in the "cloud", and how businesses are shaping up to leverage all of these things. At the end of the day business drives technology adoption. This is easily (and often) forgotten.

If you want to become a data architect in the future, it's important to focus on mastering the basics of Db design, data modeling, and various DBMS. In addition, it's also important to embrace cloud services such as AWS, Azure, or GCP, in order to take advantage of their scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness for managing and analyzing data. By developing proficiency in SQL and becoming familiar with NoSQL db's, you'll be better equipped to design and implement robust data architectures that meet the ever-evolving needs of organizations in a rapidly changing digital landscape. Integrating cloud services into your skill set will enhance your ability to deliver exceptional results while staying up-to-date with the latest trends.

Try following steps to excel as a data architect in future, -Consider pursuing relevant certifications in data architecture, such as Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) or AWS Certified Solutions Architect. -Develop excellent communication and collaboration skills. You'll frequently interact with stakeholders from different departments, including business leaders, data analysts, and IT professionals. -Develop a strong understanding of your organization's business objectives and requirements. -Stay updated with the latest technologies, tools, and best practices in data architecture, database management, and data analytics. Continuously expand your knowledge of cloud platforms, big data technologies, machine learning, and AI.

To excel as a data architect, strengthen your foundation in database management systems like SQL Server, Oracle, and NoSQL databases. Deepen your knowledge in data modeling, warehousing, and ETL processes. Familiarize yourself with cloud services like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud for scalable data solutions. Stay updated with emerging technologies like big data frameworks and AI. Develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills to design robust data architectures. Continuously improve your communication skills to effectively collaborate with stakeholders and lead teams. Embrace lifelong learning and certification opportunities to stay ahead in the field.

As a data architect your job isn’t to play with technology or take months creating the world’s most perfect data model behind closed doors. You need to understand how your business works, and be naturally curious to discover what drives value, creates efficiencies or minimizes risk. To be successful you need to work in partnership with both technical and business teams to deliver tangible value. Crucially you need to build relationships with key stakeholders and present technical ideas in a simple yet effective way to educate others on the journey. Understand that technology on its own is an enabler to delivering the needs of the business, nothing more.

The best data architects are ones who have a fundemental understanding of data modelling. since data modelling enables you to understand the functional needs of an enterprise.