Software Architect: What is it?

A software architect is a central figure in the development of a programme or application. These professionals are usually responsible for defining the technical standards of the entire project, but they are also the intermediaries between business stakeholders. They can work for a variety of companies, both public and private, either on a freelance basis or as a permanent or full-time employee. They are a professional who designs and develops applications and programmes. They dictate technical standards related to coding, tools and project platforms. In other words, they are responsible for all aspects of software architecture, from guidelines to project quality.

The role of a software architect, also known as a system architect or IT architect, is complex. Typically, these architects are professionals who have been in the programming or IT world for many years. They take on high-level responsibilities and make the most important decisions in the software development process.

What does a software architect do?

Just as an architect plans, designs and directs the construction of a building or urban space, a software architect plans, designs and directs the creation of a programme or application. They choose what technology will be used and make decisions about design, technical measures, platforms, and coding standards. They also supervise the work of other team members and act as a liaison or intermediary between the development team and project managers.

Some of the most important functions of a software architect include the following:

• Identifying project stakeholders.
• Knowledge of the operational requirements.
• Selecting system architecture and components.
• Designing and planning software systems.
• Ensuring system efficiency, adaptability, and security.
• Coordinate and monitor the implementation of the architecture.
• Evaluate the system and suggest improvements.

How to become an IT architect?

Software architects generally have good job prospects, the horizon is full of qualified offers and growth opportunities. It is possible to become a software project manager if a number of requirements are met:

Be an expert in programming: software architects are proficient in several programming languages, both backend (Java, Python, Ruby, C#, Scala) and frontend (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, and others). Of course, it is not necessary that they are fluent in all existing languages, but it is necessary that they have a good knowledge of the languages that will be used in the project they will be working on. Knowledge of next-generation technologies: in addition to basic technical programming knowledge, IT architects should have knowledge of iOS and Android devices, the Internet of Things, cloud computing, task automation, IT security, and more. They should also be familiar with solution deployment automation tools such as GitHub, Bitbucket, Jenkins Docker, and others.

Social skills: technical knowledge is not enough for a role that requires constant communication, coordination with other teams, and task control. A software architect must have certain "social" skills such as: leadership, teamwork, assertive communication (clear and effective) and problem solving skills. Know the customer or employer well: software architects need to understand the industry the organisation they work for belongs to. This will enable them to have a complete organisational vision, making it easier to make decisions in line with business objectives.

Possess related knowledge: companies usually hire IT architects with a degree in computer engineering, systems engineering or a degree related to computers. However, it is also possible to obtain such a position on your own or through courses and textbooks.

The key role of a software architect

As you can see, working as a software architect involves a specific set of skills to design the structure and architecture of a system, ensuring its efficiency and security. In addition, you need to possess certain soft skills such as communication and leadership skills to be able to manage a team.

This is a highly sought after position in corporations as it is flexible and has a lot of growth prospects. If you are passionate about the world of programming, software architecture could be an interesting option for your professional career.