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A solution architect is a person who bridges the gap between a company’s problem and a technical solution. Solution architects create a technical vision for the problem, design, describe, and manage the solution. Their role is to analyze the existing environment, and technologies available, and decide what software product needs to be developed to solve the problem. They also create a budget for the same. When the stakeholders of the company have agreed to the solution they monitor the process and keep them informed. Keep reading to know more about the solution architect roles and responsibilities, how to become a solution architect, the certifications, solution architect jobs in the USA, and salary.
Table of Contents
Why Should You Become a Solution Architect?
There are many reasons why you should become a solution architect. Some of the main reasons are high demand, high pay, and job satisfaction.
- Businesses require the latest software and hardware to stay competitive. As a result, there is high demand for solution architects and job stability.
- The complexity of their tasks means that their knowledge and experience are valuable in any industry. Due to this reason, these people are paid high salaries.
- It is rewarding to work for anyone who is interested in solving challenging problems
- Due to advancements in technology, the position also brings high opportunities for growth
Relevant Read: Computer Science vs Software Engineering
Roles and Responsibilities
Below are the roles and responsibilities involved in this role. Depending on the business and project that a person is working on he/she is expected to carry out the following tasks.
- Giving suggestions and roadmaps for proposed solutions
- Design, debug, and check the performance of the solutions
- Documenting and sharing the top expertise for new solutions
- Supporting process improvements and assisting in developing solutions
- Communicating the new features and gains to partners, customers as well as stakeholders
- Being the technical leader of a team throughout the project lifecycle
- Creating a proof of the concept projects to validate proposed solutions
- Validate and review the solution design put forward by other team members
Relevant Read: Computer Engineering Subjects
Steps to Become a Solution Architect
Students can follow the steps below to become a solution architect
Solution Architect: Education
To become a solution architect education is important. Students can gain a B. A degree in IT, computer science, software engineering, or a similar field. The degree might require you four years to complete. However, it will equip you with the essential skills required such as business analysis, project management, IT architecture, infrastructure, cloud development, engineering, software architecture design, and DevOps.
Higher qualification
Another step is to take an advanced degree in a systems-focused area. Several employers require an employee to get a Master’s degree as well. For example, MBA in information systems and M.SC in systems architecture. The duration of such a degree is between 18 months to 24 months. Other graduate degree programs that a student can take up include systems design, project management, software engineering, and advanced computer architecture theory.
Experience
A solution architect needs to have at least 5 years of experience in a technology-related field. For example, network administrator, or software developer. To excel in the field, a person requires experience in complex database management systems and business-related intelligence tools. Some employers might even pay all of your graduation tuition fees to improve your skills.
Certification
Several institutions offer graduate-level certification in systems architecture that can be completed in a short period of time. An independent program can be pursued after completion of the graduate program. For this, certification becomes essential. These certifications can be gained online and can help you stand out from other candidates.
Soft skills
Apart from technical skills solution architects require soft skills as well. Communication skills are required to discuss highly complex systems with colleagues, and make clients understand the complex technology. Analytical skills are needed to determine which products are best suited for the company. Analytical skills are also needed to identify potential risks and offer solutions. Possessing organizational skills can be helpful in increasing the efficiency and productivity of this role.
Apply for Jobs
After completing the education and gaining experience an individual can easily apply for the position of a solution architect. For this purpose, students can search popular job portals, industry websites, and industry publications.
Must Read: Why is the Inclusion of Soft Skills in the Curriculum Important?
Solution Architect Certifications
Some of the popular certification programs that students can take up to become solution architects include
| S.no | Certifications |
| 1 | Certified scrum master |
| 2 | The open architecture framework |
| 3 | Microsoft certified solutions expert |
| 4 | Certified Information Systems Security Professional – Architecture |
| 5 | AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate |
| 6 | CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP) |
| 7 | Energy Management Certification (EMC) |
| 8 | Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) |
Must Read: MCSE (Microsoft Certified System Engineer) Certification
Salary
The job salary for this role can range between $91,000 to $172,000 (INR 74.76 lakh-1.41 cr) annually abroad. Technical architecture average salary in the US is around $124960. It depends upon the experience of the candidate, certifications acquired, and other qualifications. Solution architect jobs in India’s salary is INR 25 lakhs per annum.
| Position | Experience | Average Salary | Salary in INR |
| Entry-level | 1-4 years | $75,000 | INR 61.62 lakh |
| Solution Architect | 5-9 years | $125,000 | INR 1.02 cr |
| Experienced | 10+ years | $175,000 | INR 1.43 cr |
FAQs
Ans. Yes, being a solution architect is a good job. It is a well-paid and highly sought-after senior position.
Ans. Some of the skills that a person in this role must possess include technical background, experience in development, communication skills, analytical skills, and project and resource management skills.
Ans. A solution architect is not required to know to code.
Solution architects are required in almost every company to solve technical problems. Becoming a solution architect is a great career choice because it pays well, provides job satisfaction, and is high in demand. Need help with study abroad admissions? Call us at 1800 572 000 and book our free 30-minute counselling session today.