What is a Solution Architect? A Guide to Role and Responsibilities

Solution Architects are key to bridging the gap between business objectives and technology solutions. They leverage technical and business expertise to become valuable drivers of an organization's technological advancements and digital transformation.  

What skills, experience, and knowledge are needed to become a Solution Architect? This guide examines the role and responsibilities of a Solution Architect. It will also focus on the required skills, potential salary, and the different types of architects in modern organizations.

What is a Solution Architect?

Solution Architects develop blueprints tailored to meet specific business requirements and oversee their implementation to ensure alignment with business goals. Collaborating closely with project managers and engineering teams, they design system architectures encompassing software, hardware, and networks, balancing technical feasibility with business objectives and project constraints.

A Solution Architect usually:

• Designs detailed technical solutions to achieve project goals.
• Ensures alignment of individual software projects with overall business strategy and technology standards.
• Collaborates closely with development teams to oversee solution implementation.
• Evaluates project constraints to identify alternatives, mitigate risks, and potentially re-engineer processes.
• Acts as a liaison between technical and non-technical stakeholders.

With their extensive understanding of available technologies, Solution Architects select the optimal software and hardware for the solution within budget constraints, documenting their findings in a Solution Architecture document or diagram. Upon plan approval, they manage the project, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets, and communicate progress to stakeholders by translating technical details into layman's terms.

Before discussing Solution Architects' roles and responsibilities in more detail, it is important to clarify some key differences with other roles.

Solution Architect vs. Project Manager: What’s the Difference?

Solution Architects are tasked with crafting the overarching Solution Architecture, ensuring its alignment with business needs and seamless integration with current systems and technologies. They prioritize the technical vision and strategy, assess technical solutions, and verify that project technical aspects adhere to business objectives. Additionally, they may aid in delineating non-functional requisites like scalability, security, and performance benchmarks.

But Solution Architects aren’t Project Managers. Defining timeframes and budgets isn't normally the primary responsibility of a Solution Architect; instead, that falls more frequently under the jurisdiction of a Project Manager.

Solution Architects require robust project management abilities encompassing communication, organization, and risk management. While they collaborate closely with Project Managers and other stakeholders, their primary focus remains on the technical aspects rather than managing the project's timeline, budget, or day-to-day tasks.

Solution Architect vs. Enterprise Architect vs. Business Architect

While solution, enterprise, and business architects can occasionally overlap in scope, they generally have very different areas of focus regarding technology, projects, and the wider organization.

A Solution Architect's job description often includes the responsibilities of Enterprise and Business Architects, particularly within SMEs. Large corporations or those with complex IT infrastructures may require all three areas of architecture. 

Learn more about Enterprise Architecture vs Solution Architecture.

Other Types of Architects

• Infrastructure Architect: Plans, designs, and implements technical infrastructure and hardware. Collaborates primarily with network, development, and IT professionals.

• Application Architect: Specifically designs and develops software applications, working closely with software developers.

• Data Architect: Analyzes current data architecture and designs solutions to improve data management, including data collection, storage, and accessibility. They collaborate with other professionals to implement various data processes, models, and procedures. 

• Security Architect: Designs and executes a comprehensive IT infrastructure security strategy. They implement and test security solutions to harden digital environments against cyber attacks and ensure regulatory compliance.

• Integration Architect: Focuses on designing and developing IT architecture where multiple systems and applications can seamlessly work together.

Solution Architect Role, Tasks, and Responsibilities

As Solution Architects are involved with projects from conception to implementation, they take on a lot of different tasks. Here are the main roles and responsibilities: 

1. Analyzing and Establishing Business Requirements

Defining business requirements involves a collaborative effort. Solution Architects partner with business analysts, stakeholders, and project managers to ensure the proposed technical solutions meet business objectives.

Along with business goals and needs, Solution Architects seek to gain an intricate understanding of the organization’s enterprise environment. They evaluate processes and workflows to uncover inefficiencies and constraints and identify opportunities to improve business capabilities with technology solutions.

2. Designing a Technical Strategy

A Solution Architect's primary task is to design an architectural blueprint that outlines the path to success. The strategy is then used for tasks such as defining technical specifications and determining the project tech stack. The architect also considers requirements relating to integrations, scalability, and security.

Solution Architects communicate this technical strategy — along with its ongoing progress — to stakeholders. It is their responsibility to communicate this effectively and clearly to stakeholders with varying levels of technical knowledge.  

Aligning the technical strategy with the organization's broader goals and IT standards is crucial for a successful Solution Architecture that provides long-term value to the organization.

3. Matching Solutions to Business Requirements

Solution Architects select the technologies, platforms, and vendors that most effectively meet business goals and resolve challenges. To ensure the accuracy of their decision, they undertake comprehensive research and analysis into different technologies. 

For example, Solution Architects evaluate design, performance, scalability, cost, and integrability with the existing environment.

4. Balancing Constraints

Identifying and accounting for constraints is one of the most fundamental and challenging tasks for Solution Architects. Solution Architects need to identify, prioritize, and manage architectural constraints, adapting solutions to reduce risks and work within budget.

The most common constraints managed by Solution Architects include:

• Cost
• Lack of Resources
• Scope
• Time-to-Market
• Compliance
• Quality
• Technologies

5. Creating Technical Documentation

Detailed technical documentation acts as a guide for development teams who rely upon the architect’s diagrams, models, and specifications to build the proposed solution. Documentation is also used to communicate technical strategies to stakeholders. Solution Architects must therefore create intricate technical documentation that details the solution in full. 

6. Managing and Collaborating With Software Development Teams

Although they don’t take on the full Project Manager role, Solution Architects do adopt a leadership position during the development process. They guide the project’s technical direction and uphold technical quality standards. This involves overseeing and supporting development and working closely with development teams to verify they’re following the original design and adhering to specifications. 

Solution Architects collaborate with developers to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues, ensuring compliance with quality attributes such as scalability, performance, usability, and security. 

Developing strong communication channels between architectural and development teams is essential to guarantee alignment with the architectural vision.

What Are the Skills and Background Required For a Solution Architect Role?

Solution Architects have a wide range of specialized skills that enable them to lead complex projects. Here are some of their main skills: 

Strong Communication Skills

The role of a Solution Architect is highly collaborative. The ability to effectively communicate and negotiate with stakeholders is paramount. Solution Architects must excel not only in technical communication but also in simplifying complex technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders.

Solution Architects must be able to ask the right questions to grasp a business's technical requirements. They also need to explain complex information clearly and concisely. This allows them to collaborate with developers, project managers, and other teams, uniting and guiding all parties toward a shared technical vision. 

Project and Resource Management

Although they might not be Project Managers, Solution Architects need project management skills. They must ensure that solutions are aligned with available resources and within given timeframes, all while considering the solution's overall advantages. 

There are also long-term challenges to consider. A Solution Architect sees the big picture and should, therefore, be able to anticipate and guide businesses through unforeseen risks or changes, pivoting development strategies accordingly.

However, a Solution Architect doesn't engage in day-to-day project management tasks. Their role in project management primarily focuses on ensuring that the technical aspects of the project align with overall project goals rather than directly managing project resources and timelines.

Technical Skills

A Solution Architect must have the technical education and experience to execute cloud architecture management. Generally, you’ll need experience across several core IT areas, including:

• Software Architecture Design
• IT Architecture and Infrastructure
• Cloud Computing and Development
• Business Analysis
• DevOps
• Networking and IT Security

But this is by no means an exhaustive list. With so many specializations, the exact skills that a Solution Architect needs will vary depending on their responsibilities. The necessary experience can vary significantly based on the particular role, industry, and project complexity. Substantial experience in core IT domains is crucial, however the exact amount required may differ.

Given the rapid evolution of technology, staying abreast of emerging technologies and engaging in continuous learning are vital components of a Solution Architect's responsibilities.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

Architects use keen analytical skills to understand the specifications of technologies and how they interconnect with the business’s current architecture and future goals. This guides strategic decision-making and helps them resolve problems that present current or future risks.

How to Become a Solution Architect

What education and experience is required to become a Solution Architect?

1. Educational Background

• • Bachelor’s Degree: Many Solution Architects begin with a Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, software engineering, or a related field. 66% of Solution Architects have a Bachelor’s degree. This foundational education equips them with the technical knowledge and analytical skills essential for an IT career.

  • Advanced Degrees: Some individuals may pursue a Master’s degree in IT, business administration (MBA with a concentration in IT management), or specialized fields such as cloud computing or software engineering to enhance their expertise and career opportunities. Zippia observes that 24% of Solution Architects hold a Master’s degree.

2. IT Experience

• • Entry-Level IT Positions: Some Solution Architects initiate their career in roles such as Software Developer, Systems Analyst, or Network Engineer. These positions offer hands-on experience with diverse technologies and insights into software development, networking, and IT infrastructure.

  • Specialization: With increasing experience, consider specializing in database management, cloud computing, cybersecurity, or DevOps. Specialization fosters in-depth expertise in key technologies essential for making architectural decisions.

3. Project Management Abilities

• • Project Management Exposure: Assuming project management duties, even within a technical capacity, aids in nurturing the organizational and leadership proficiencies crucial for a Solution Architect. Serving as a Project Manager or in project coordination roles proves particularly advantageous.

• • Certifications: Pursuing certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or PRINCE2 enhances project management competencies and expertise.

4. Attain Targeted Technical Expertise and Certifications

• • Technical Mastery: A potential Solution Architect looks to enhance their proficiency in technical domains directly pertinent to the desired specialization. This may involve mastering specific programming languages, cloud platforms (such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud), and enterprise architecture frameworks.

  • Certifications: A candidate will obtain certifications aligned with the area of expertise (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, or Open Group Certified Architect (Open CA) Certification) to authenticate capabilities and expertise to potential employers.

5. Progress into Architectural Positions

• • Intermediate Positions: Before assuming the role of a Solution Architect, a candidate may consider positions such as Technical Lead, Senior Developer, or Systems Architect. These roles usually typically entail involvement in architectural decision-making and leadership within IT projects.

  • Networking and Mentorship: Establishing a professional network and seeking guidance from mentors already in architectural roles can offer valuable advice, perspectives, and avenues for transitioning into a Solution Architect position.

6. Continuous Learning and Adaptability

• • Stay Informed: A potential Solution Architect should embrace the ever-changing landscape of technology by dedicating themselves to continuous learning through courses, workshops, and self-study to stay updated on emerging technologies and methodologies.

  • Polish Soft Skills: It is important to hone essential soft skills such as communication, negotiation, and strategic thinking, which are indispensable for fostering effective collaboration with technical teams and interacting with business stakeholders.

Why Become a Solutions Architect?

The Solution Architect role is rewarding for software engineers looking to climb up the career ladder and embrace a role that allows them to put their expertise to use more widely. 

Solution Architects play a core role in decision-making. They’re involved with projects on a deeper level and must leverage a wide range of skills to drive effectiveness and efficiency to the process. Becoming a Solution Architect could be the right move for a diligent, confident individual looking for agency and influence. 

What is the Workplace of a Solution Architect Like?

Solution Architects work across various industries and settings, from small business software development companies to vast Fortune 500 corporations across tech, retail, finance, and more. So, the workplace can vary significantly.

That said, some aspects of the workplace remain consistent regardless of the company’s size, industry, or job specifications.

The role is usually fast-paced and collaborative. Much time will be spent liaising with stakeholders, from business executives to partners and end-users. So, a great deal of time will be spent in meetings. Depending on the company, this might involve traveling to meet stakeholders or attending conferences remotely via video. 

Who Do Solution Architects Work With?

Solution Architects work closely with colleagues, including data analysts, networking engineers, project managers, and other architects. They also collaborate closely with developers to ensure the software architecture and coding practices conform to the prescribed solution and fulfill the project's technical specifications.

Key groups solutions architects tend to interact with:

1. 1. Enterprise Architects: Solution Architects collaborate with Enterprise Architects by aligning their technical solution designs with the overarching Enterprise Architecture framework. They ensure that their proposed solutions adhere to the enterprise's strategic objectives, standards, and guidelines set by Enterprise Architects. This collaboration helps in creating cohesive and integrated IT solutions that support the broader business goals and vision.

   2. Project Managers: Solution Architects work closely with Project Managers to ensure project alignment with budgetary constraints, timelines, and the architectural vision. This partnership facilitates early identification and mitigation of technical risks throughout the project lifecycle.

   3. IT Operations Teams: Solution Architects collaborate with network engineers, system administrators, and security specialists to ensure that the infrastructure sufficiently supports the solution and complies with operational standards for performance, reliability, and security.

   4. Business Analysts: Solution Architects communicate with Business Analysts to gain a comprehensive understanding of business requirements, as Business Analysts gather and document these requirements from business stakeholders.

   5. Quality Assurance (QA) Teams: Solution Architects work alongside QA teams to ensure adherence to quality standards and functional requirements, contributing to the formulation of testing strategies and addressing any issues encountered during testing phases.

   6. Data Scientists and Analysts: In projects reliant on data, Solution Architects collaborate with Data Scientists and Analysts to integrate data models and analytics capabilities effectively into the solution.

   7. External Vendors and Technology Partners: Solution Architects engage with external entities, including software vendors, technology service providers, and consultants, to choose and integrate third-party solutions and technologies into the project.

   8. Executive Leadership and Stakeholders: Solution Architects regularly communicate with senior management and key stakeholders to ensure alignment with business objectives, obtain necessary approvals, and provide updates on project progress and outcomes.

Solution Architect Certification

Professional certifications can help validate a Solution Architect's proficiency. They verify that the architect possesses the skills, knowledge, and experience required to be competent. As no two Solution Architect positions are the same, different employers will value different certifications.

Most professional certifications relevant to Solution Architects focus on proving proficiency in a specific technology or skill. Some of the most common certifications include:

• AWS Solution Architect Certification: Validates whether someone can design and deploy applications and systems using AWS technologies. This certification is offered at two levels — associate and professional — with the former requiring at least one year of experience and the latter requiring two years of experience.

• Azure Solutions Architect Certification: Tests proficiency using Microsoft Azure and verifies a deep understanding of Azure infrastructure.

• Open Group Certified Architect (Open CA) Certification: The Open Group Open Certified Architect (Open CA) certification is an independent global certification for qualifying the skills, knowledge, and experience of Solution, Business, Enterprise, and Digital Architects. It is accepted and applicable worldwide and consists of four specializations, all available at Certified, Master Certified, and Distinguished levels.

Try Ardoq Scenarios For Faster Solution Architecture Implementation That Will Bring Lasting Change

Solution Architects are masters at designing, developing, and implementing a technical strategy. Solution Architecture aims to deploy the optimal technological solution for an organization, ensuring success both presently and in the future. Leveraging appropriate software can simplify, streamline, and accelerate the process. As projects become more complex, data-driven Enterprise Architecture platforms like Ardoq become essential for guiding architects and organizations through challenges and mitigating risks.

As a platform for Enterprise Architecture, Ardoq covers all the disciplines under the EA umbrella, including Solution Architecture. It’s designed to help organizations navigate strategic change, such as digital transformation, with expert guidance in product configuration, use case adoption, and industry best practices.

Ardoq Scenarios enables architects to better understand impact on the business and IT landscape through data-driven scenario analysis, comparing current and future states. An architect may create custom models or utilize Ardoq’s pre-built solutions, covering areas like Application Rationalization, Portfolio Management, Business Capability Modeling, Cloud Migration, and ERP Transformation.

Trust Ardoq to speed up time to value and confidently steer architectural initiatives.

FAQs About Solution Architects

How Does a Solution Architect Differ From Other IT Roles?

Solution Architects differ from other IT Architect roles in that they’re most closely aligned with project management. Solution Architects oversee projects from beginning to end, balancing technology and strategy to not only design concepts but also develop, analyze, implement, monitor, and continuously guide strategic initiatives. 

This is in stark contrast to Enterprise Architects (who focus on early-stage, big-picture strategy) and Business Architects (who focus on business strategy, governance, organization, and key business processes). 

What Industries Commonly Employ Solution Architects?

Solution Architects are employed across diverse industries. Technology, finance, retail, and healthcare are among the most common industries to employ Solution Architects, but any company with complex IT architecture — regardless of industry — may hire a Solution Architect