Path to being a software architect

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ima_be_thatguy

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Hi Guys
So im in a bit of a rut. Have a bsc Computer Science and Bsc Honours IS. And I have about 10 years professional programming experience mostly on the backend. I feel the next logical step for me would be software architecture. Any software architects (or anyone else) here with some advice on how to transition?
 
What , in your opinion, is the difference between a programmer and a software architect?
 
Batista said:
What , in your opinion, is the difference between a programmer and a software architect?
Click to expand...

I think a software architect would spend more time modelling and analyzing. perhaps spec a project from a higher perspective. Whereas the programmer would be responsible for actually coding said features. In most small companies these roles are often interchangeable where the Programmer actually does all of this. Bigger corporations actually have clearly defined architecture roles.

Id say the architect would be in more of a management role within the project and be communicating with stakeholders more.

Thoughts?
 
Responsibilities
-Meet the business and architectural objectives of the organisation through setting the future direction and developing migration plans
-Ensure alignment with emerging technologies and make recommendation of new technologies
-Ensure all aspects of the solution domain design and implementation are done according to the agreed architecture framework.
-Optimise the architecture across processes; systems; and components of that domain through a solution domain viewpoint
-Serve as a technical design leader by applying the integration of application solutions and architecturally significant components.
-Identify relevant solutions and propose which should be put forward for proof of concept/technology within the context of a particular domain
-Develops application design guidelines; standards and patterns
-Provide input into the strategic technology direction of the organisation from an applications perspective
-Build a customised solution for the customer by addressing delivery through a client needs analysis and adapting one's current knowledge.
-Influences others to effectively achieve acceptance of the solution designed within their discipline
-Keep abreast of legislation and other industry changes that impacts on role by reading the relevant newsletters; websites and attending sessions.
-Carry out research and consult with industry experts with regard to best practise and technology trends.--
-Maintains up to date knowledge of latest developments in their area of expertise. Including reading; continuous professional development courses; seminars, conferences and building networks that facilitate deeper understanding related to their discipline.
 
"Software Architect" is this the same as a "Solution Architect"?

Sounds like it.

If so then you need more than just programming experience. It's typically an Intermediate/Senior role that involves managing System Analysts as well as Business Analysts.

That's the answer to your question IMO - you should spend some time as a System Analyst to progress into the Solution Architect role.

Having said that, most of us know how the IT industry works and if you have some grit/determination and a 'can-do' attitude along with some natural aptitude then you typically add value in many different roles.
 
ima_be_thatguy said:
I think a software architect would spend more time modelling and analyzing. perhaps spec a project from a higher perspective. Whereas the programmer would be responsible for actually coding said features. In most small companies these roles are often interchangeable where the Programmer actually does all of this. Bigger corporations actually have clearly defined architecture roles.

Id say the architect would be in more of a management role within the project and be communicating with stakeholders more.

Thoughts?
Click to expand...

Ok, so what do you actually enjoy, the coding part or the business part? Software architects are basically project leaders of the programming team.I could never go into this due to the fact that they dont program, and have to deal with managing people, but that is the only step up for a programmer.
 
Batista said:
Ok, so what do you actually enjoy, the coding part or the business part? Software architects are basically project leaders of the programming team.I could never go into this due to the fact that they dont program, and have to deal with managing people, but that is the only step up for a programmer.
Click to expand...

Right nowI enjoy programming and problem solving more. But as you say, this is the only step up for a programmer? I feel I want to progress, but not sure how to be honest
 
SlinkyMike said:
"Software Architect" is this the same as a "Solution Architect"?

Sounds like it.

If so then you need more than just programming experience. It's typically an Intermediate/Senior role that involves managing System Analysts as well as Business Analysts.

That's the answer to your question IMO - you should spend some time as a System Analyst to progress into the Solution Architect role.

Having said that, most of us know how the IT industry works and if you have some grit/determination and a 'can-do' attitude along with some natural aptitude then you typically add value in many different roles.
Click to expand...

How does the role of Systems Analyst differ from Architect
 
CamiKaze said:
Responsibilities
-Meet the business and architectural objectives of the organisation through setting the future direction and developing migration plans
-Ensure alignment with emerging technologies and make recommendation of new technologies
-Ensure all aspects of the solution domain design and implementation are done according to the agreed architecture framework.
-Optimise the architecture across processes; systems; and components of that domain through a solution domain viewpoint
-Serve as a technical design leader by applying the integration of application solutions and architecturally significant components.
-Identify relevant solutions and propose which should be put forward for proof of concept/technology within the context of a particular domain
-Develops application design guidelines; standards and patterns
-Provide input into the strategic technology direction of the organisation from an applications perspective
-Build a customised solution for the customer by addressing delivery through a client needs analysis and adapting one's current knowledge.
-Influences others to effectively achieve acceptance of the solution designed within their discipline
-Keep abreast of legislation and other industry changes that impacts on role by reading the relevant newsletters; websites and attending sessions.
-Carry out research and consult with industry experts with regard to best practise and technology trends.--
-Maintains up to date knowledge of latest developments in their area of expertise. Including reading; continuous professional development courses; seminars, conferences and building networks that facilitate deeper understanding related to their discipline.
Click to expand...

So more management?
 
Add some Project Management and maybe Togaf certification to the mix. Shall give you a better understanding / alignment with the role.
 
Yeah, I know a few SW Architects with less than 5 years programming experience...
 
ima_be_thatguy said:
Right nowI enjoy programming and problem solving more. But as you say, this is the only step up for a programmer? I feel I want to progress, but not sure how to be honest
Click to expand...

Cool, im in the same boat, the only way up now in my company is with project management.Im already the most senior dev.Its really hard to progress, especially when you are comfortable.
 
ima_be_thatguy said:
How does the role of Systems Analyst differ from Architect
Click to expand...

Seniority mainly. Read into that all of the typical stuff (remit/accountability/ownership, etc.)

Definitions do differ but IMO a Solution Architect is an System Analyst 'all growed up.'

ima_be_thatguy said:
Right nowI enjoy programming and problem solving more. But as you say, this is the only step up for a programmer? I feel I want to progress, but not sure how to be honest
Click to expand...

Batista said:
Cool, im in the same boat, the only way up now in my company is with project management.Im already the most senior dev.Its really hard to progress, especially when you are comfortable.
Click to expand...

Things are changing. You don't need to move into management in order to get salaries that traditionally exist at that level anymore.

I know senior devs who earn very close to C-level salaries. It's about the value you add.
 
Last edited:
SlinkyMike said:
Things are changing. You don't need to move into management in order to get salaries that traditionally exist at that level anymore.

I know senior devs who earn very close to C-level salaries. It's about the value you add.
Click to expand...


I was going to say the same thing re salaries. I am a front end web developer and although it will not really be possible for me to hit 70 or 80k per month, the demand for developers in general (in SA) is so hectic that salaries close to that.......is epicly REAL.

I know this is not part of the original question, but an interesting point nonetheless.
 
CamiKaze said:
Are those Senior devs contracting or permanent?
Click to expand...

Two contractors, one business owner. The contractors make their own hours and work from wherever they want.

Granted, these are edge-cases. One has a lot of knowledge of the subject area, the other is just that good.

Great Gatsby said:
I was going to say the same thing re salaries. I am a front end web developer and although it will not really be possible for me to hit 70 or 80k per month, the demand for developers in general (in SA) is so hectic that salaries close to that.......is epicly REAL.

I know this is not part of the original question, but an interesting point nonetheless.
Click to expand...

It's absolutely about finding a place where the value you can add is exceptionally high.

A modern business needs good tech, if you can supply that, consistently, then you can make a very good living.
 
I've been moulding my career and studies around being an Architect.
I have found that some companies prefer to use Alfabet to do their EA work. Anyone here use Alfabet?
 
CamiKaze said:
I've been moulding my career and studies around being an Architect.
I have found that some companies prefer to use Alfabet to do their EA work. Anyone here use Alfabet?
Click to expand...

ARIS has long been a popular choice, I haven't used it in years but as always the tool is less important than he methodology.

Know TOGAF, the tool is incidental.
 
Architecture in general is about design according to certain standards.
SlinkyMike said:
Definitions do differ but IMO a Solution Architect is an System Analyst 'all growed up.'
Click to expand...
Not always the case. SAs can also move towards system architecture, depending on their skill-set of course...
 
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