Role of a Solution Architect in Modern Organizations

This week came across a topic of how the market lacks good Solutions Architects and how the role of a Solution Architect is often misused in the IT industry, especially with the advent of cloud certifications. With Agile Organizations, the role of the Solution Architect also seems to be diminishing. It has also led to organizations creating other different Architecture titles doing specific tasks.

Having played the role of Solution Architect for about a decade now, I feel the title typically requires years of experience designing and implementing complex software solutions in different projects and domains. 

Solution Architect Mindset

It involves a deep understanding of Business requirements, Technical constraints, Architecture Design and Principles, and staying up-to-date on Emerging Technologies. Solution Architects must also possess strong communication and leadership skills to work effectively with Stakeholders, Developers, Business Architects, and other team members.

With the rise of cloud certifications, many individuals get the title of Solution Architect without the necessary experience and expertise. It is probably the main reason that has led to a proliferation of Solution Architects who lack the required skills to design and implement complex solutions. 

Also, Organizations do not clearly define the roles and responsibilities of a Solution Architect. The role has evolved in the past decade with emerging technologies and ways of working, but the fundamentals have always remained the same. 

By definition, a Solution Architect's role is to design and oversee the implementation of software solutions that meet business requirements. To think like a modern Solution Architect, for any project, one has to mold in the below five areas. 

a) Understanding Business Requirements

b) Evaluate the requirements based on the abilities

c) Define the Architecture principles of the solution

d) Define the Architecture and design the overall solution

e) and Participate in the development of end-to-end solution

Conclusion

In conclusion, to have a successful Solution Architect mindset, one needs to ensure they have the problem-solving ability, love having strategic thinking proficiency, have proper communication to collaborate, and have the urge for continuous learning.