A guide to becoming an IT architect

Are you thinking of advancing your career as an IT architect? Aspiring IT Architects ought to refine their technical skills in areas like systems architecture, cybersecurity, computing, and data management. In today’s technology-driven world, corporations count on IT Architects to envision, create, and execute cutting-edge solutions that streamline corporate procedures and foster invention. Thus, it has become an  extremely lucrative and acclaimed professional path. While a basic degree such as a BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications) is a great initial step, the route to becoming an IT Architect necessitates ongoing learning and professional growth. 

Cultivating solid quantitative, problem-solving, and interpersonal abilities can additionally assist you in effectively collaborating with stakeholders and translating corporate needs into robust IT solutions. You can pave your road to a profitable career as an IT Architect by seeking professional credentials, getting hands-on expertise, and remaining up-to-date on the latest technological breakthroughs. Find out the steps to becoming an IT Architect along with the roles and responsibilities and the key skills required for this position. 

Also read: How a BCA helps you launch your IT career

Who is an IT Architect?

Professional in charge of organizing and putting in place an organization’s information technology systems is known as an IT architect. They have an in-depth comprehension of both technology and business, allowing them to align technology solutions with the company’s objectives. IT architects analyze business needs, evaluate the technology at hand, and design detailed blueprints for the melding of network infrastructure, software, and hardware.

Roles and responsibilities of an IT Architect

The role of the IT Architect is vital for shaping and designing an organization’s technology landscape. Typical responsibilities include:

• Define and design IT systems: 

They are in charge of setting up the overall design and architecture of an organization’s IT systems. This entails deciding on the optimal technologies, frameworks, and platforms to utilize, in addition to establishing design principles and standards.

• Develop IT strategies: 

These experts design IT strategies that comply with the company’s objectives and goals. They examine the present IT landscape, identify potential areas of betterment, and offer strategic measures for boosting productivity, effectiveness, and privacy.

• Conduct system analysis: 

The IT architect analyzes the present IT infrastructure thoroughly, identifies possible slowdowns or areas for upgrades, and suggests solutions to increase scalability, system performance, and dependability. They also evaluate the consequences of emerging innovations and provide solutions based on their findings.

• Ensure security and compliance: 

The IT architect is responsible for designing and implementing robust safety protocols within IT systems. They evaluate security risks, develop security policies and processes, and collaborate with cybersecurity units to guarantee compliance with relevant laws and commercial guidelines.

Also read: Is an online BCA course equivalent to a regular BCA?

Average salary of an IT architect

An IT architect’s average yearly income is around ₹ 24.3 LPA in India. It’s crucial to keep in mind, though, that actual pay can vary based on various factors. The type of employer you work for, where you live, your qualifications, your experience, and your educational qualifications will have an impact on how much earnings you generate.

Skills needed for an IT  architect job

A comprehensive skill set integrating technical expertise, problem-solving talents, and strong interpersonal abilities is required for an IT architect. Here are eight key skills required for an IT Architect:

• Technical expertise: IT architects must have a solid grasp of the multiple technologies, platforms, and frameworks that are pertinent to the business’s IT architecture. This covers an understanding of operating systems, databases, coding languages, networking protocols, cloud computing, and security.

• Systems thinking: IT architects must be able to perceive the big picture and comprehend how various systems, elements, and technologies interact within a company’s IT ecology. They must be able to acknowledge dependencies, analyze complex systems, and devise comprehensive solutions.

• Solution design: IT architects ought to be adept at coming up with novel and practical solutions to business and technical problems. They must be able to transform business needs into scalable and effective architectural designs and have an in-depth knowledge of architectural concepts and patterns.

• Communication and collaboration: IT architects must have excellent communication skills to work well with all types of stakeholders, including infrastructure teams, business executives, developers, and project managers. They must be capable of performing well in cross-functional teams and clearly articulating complex technological concepts.

• Analytical thinking: IT architects need to have excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities for analyzing complex situations, spotting hazards, and arriving at wise conclusions. They should be able to evaluate trade-offs, weigh alternative strategies, and provide optimal architectural solutions based on technical and business needs.

• Leadership and influence: IT architects frequently take the lead on architectural projects, so they should be able to oversee development teams, shape architectural choices, and garner buy-in from stakeholders. They must also be able to convince and negotiate efficiently to ensure consistency with architectural ideas.

• Adaptability and learning agility: The IT setting evolves constantly, and IT architects must stay current on new developments, market trends, and industry standards. They should have a strong drive to learn novel skills and adapt their skills to keep up with emerging business needs and technology improvements.

• Business acumen: IT architects must comprehend the organization’s business objectives, business strategies, and competitive environment. They must uncover possibilities for utilizing technology to deliver business value and coordinate technological solutions with business goals to add to the overall success of the organization.

Also read: BCA in India: What you will learn and earn

Steps to become an IT Architect

Becoming an IT architect is an unfolding journey that involves commitment, continuous education, and practical experience. Each level builds on the preceding one, assisting you in developing the necessary abilities and competence to thrive in this profession.

Step 1: Obtain a bachelor’s degree in computer applications

To begin an IT Architect career path, it is preferable to start with a relevant bachelor’s degree like Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA). This program gives a firm basis in the fields of computer science, developing software, networking, databases, and other key IT subjects.

Step 2: Gain practical experience

It is vital to get practical experience while earning a bachelor’s degree via internships, part-time employment, or volunteer activities. This hands-on training will help you better understand real-world IT infrastructures, barriers, and ways to overcome them, qualifying you for the position of IT architect.

Step 3: Acquire technical proficiency

Develop in-depth knowledge of numerous IT fields, such as system architecture, connections, security, databases, the cloud, and programming languages. As an IT architect, you must have an extensive repository of information to create and execute efficient IT solutions. So, broaden your technical horizons while staying current with changing technologies and trends.

Step 4: Consider an advanced degree

An advanced degree can be valuable in the realm of IT architecture. Consider pursuing a Master’s degree in Computer Applications (MCA) or a comparable discipline to acquire further knowledge and specialization. A master’s degree can assist you in standing apart in a competitive labor market by allowing you to do research and further specialization.

Step 5: Gain industry experience

Work in various positions within the IT industry to get diversified insights and experience across different IT settings. This could include career paths like system administrator, network engineer, computer developer, or database manager. Such expertise will provide significant perspectives into numerous facets of IT and assist you in understanding the challenges encountered by stakeholders.

Step 6: Develop soft skills

IT architects must have great soft skills besides technical expertise. These involve effective dialogue, problem-solving, analytical thinking, management, and the ability to collaborate with stakeholders from various walks of life. Improve your interpersonal and interaction skills to effectively articulate complicated technical issues to non-technical stakeholders.

Step 7: Obtain relevant certifications

Certifications can raise your standing as an IT architect by exhibiting your expertise in specific topics or technologies. TOGAF (The Open Group Architecture Framework), AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect, and Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) are a few examples of IT Architect certification options. Explore and earn certifications that are compatible with your professional objectives and technological advances in demand.

Step 8: Continuous learning and professional development

As the IT sector is constantly evolving, it is crucial to remain updated about the latest innovations, market conditions, and standard practices. Participate in ongoing education by attending conferences, seminars, online courses, and perusing industry publications. Join professional groups, engage in forums, and network with IT experts to remain connected and exchange knowledge.

Also read: Programming languages and tools you will learn in BCA and MCA degrees

Lay a strong foundation for your IT career with an online BCA on Online Manipal

Enroll in the renowned  online BCA offered by Manipal University Jaipur through the platform of Online Manipal to embark on your journey to a thriving IT career. This extensive program aims to provide aspiring IT professionals with a solid grounding in the area of computer applications. You will obtain a solid grasp of programming languages, managing databases, developing software, and other crucial IT subjects via a rigorously designed curriculum. 

Also read: Online BCA: A flexible and affordable path to a tech career

Learners can access top-notch industry-relevant instructional resources from an experienced faculty with the ease of online learning. Online Manipal also provides placement assistance services to help learners get into lucrative careers. So, start a transforming journey to get yourself ready for the dynamic, continually evolving realm of information technology by pursuing the BCA program through Online Manipal.

Conclusion

The confluence of growing digital transformation, developing technologies, privacy issues, and a scarcity of skilled professionals makes IT architecture an extremely lucrative career field. Their ability to offer cutting-edge and effective IT solutions ensures their continued relevance and economic benefits in both present and future labor markets.