The role of an IT Architect

While there are many architecture roles, such as:

• Infrastructure / Cloud Architect

• Software Architect
• Solution Architect
• Business Architect
• Business / Technical Domain Architect
• Enterprise Architect

on different flight levels, this article aims to provide a generic view on the role as an IT Architect.

The main job?

IT architecture has become more dynamic with new developments in cloud computing, cyber security, machine learning and the Internet of Things. IT architects now have to manage this complex environment, creating applications that can grow, keeping data safe and protecting networks from cyber-attacks.

But with all these tech changes, it's important to remember the main job of an IT architect:

making sure the tech strategy matches the business goals.

IT architects need to keep improving their skills to communicate between non-technical people and tech experts, acting as go-betweens in companies.

It's not just about knowing the newest technologies; IT architects also need strong communication skills to explain complex ideas to different stakeholder. They must be okay with working in uncertain situations, taking risks without sure outcomes, and thinking strategically to make smart choices. In this fast-changing field, IT architects need to keep a broad view, understanding how their work fits into the bigger picture. They must handle uncertainty, build relationships and influence decisions.

Soft skills remain the hardest to master.

Keeping up with the latest trends is important, but architects also need to develop soft skills to be good leaders. They need to be good at convincing others to see the value of good architecture.

Managing stakeholders and handling changes are key parts of an architect's job. They need to balance the interests of different groups and help manage changes smoothly without disrupting daily operations. Because they oversee entire projects, architects must handle conflicts efficiently and calmly to prevent unnecessary issues.

Additionally, they need to coordinate teams, manage resources, meet deadlines, and stay within budget. Architects must juggle many tasks and priorities to ensure projects are successful. They might run a workshop one day and solve a tricky design problem the next. It's all just part of the job.

Let's not forget the return on investment.

When architects do their job well, they bring great value to their organization and its customers. They provide a complete view of how systems interact, which helps avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary work. This ensures that solutions can grow, are strong, and ready for the future. Their strategic insights help decision-makers make better and faster decisions with accurate and complete information.

Architects also protect the quality of systems, making sure they meet standards, policies, and principles. This reduces risks like security breaches and regulatory problems. Their proactive problem-solving finds potential issues early, saving time and money.

Additionally, architects help drive innovation. By promoting a culture of continuous exploration and experimentation, they encourage creativity and new ideas. This leads to better products and services, increasing customer satisfaction and competitiveness in the market.

Architects are usually leaders, but not because of their job title.

Leadership is a key part of their role, but unlike traditional leaders who rely on their position, tech leaders gain influence through their expertise and credibility, built over years of hard work and learning. They are like firefighters, ready to act when a crisis happens, offering guidance and wisdom during chaos.

But their job is more than just handling crises. They also provide strategic direction, keeping long-term goals in mind while dealing with immediate needs. This requires them to anticipate future trends and changes and adjust plans as needed. It's a balancing act that requires agility, resilience, and determination. This kind of leadership is the heart of technological innovation, making architects catalysts for change, agents of transformation, and champions of excellence.

Don't underestimate their ability to lead, whether they officially act as "Individual Contributors" or not.