Enterprise Architect vs. Cloud Architect: What Are the Differences?

Enterprise architects and cloud architects are both responsible for designing and overseeing the implementation of technology within an organization. However, enterprise architects typically focus on on-premise solutions while cloud architects focus on cloud-based solutions. In this article, we compare and contrast enterprise architects and cloud architects, including their responsibilities, skills, and salaries.

What is an Enterprise Architect?

Enterprise Architects are responsible for designing, planning and implementing enterprise-wide systems and applications. They work with other architects, engineers, developers and business analysts to create technical roadmaps and architectures that align with business goals. Enterprise Architects create models and diagrams to document current and future state architectures. They also create and maintain enterprise-wide standards and guidelines. Enterprise Architects typically have a deep understanding of multiple technical disciplines, including networking, security, storage, databases, middleware, virtualization and cloud computing.

What is a Cloud Architect?

Cloud Architects are responsible for designing, building and managing an organization’s cloud computing infrastructure. They work with cloud providers to select the right cloud services for their needs and ensure that the infrastructure is properly set up and configured. Cloud Architects also develop and implement policies and procedures for cloud usage, security and compliance. They work with developers to design applications that can be hosted in the cloud and ensure that these applications are properly deployed and monitored. Cloud Architects also troubleshoot technical issues related to the cloud infrastructure and provide support to users.

Enterprise Architect vs. Cloud Architect

Here are the main differences between an enterprise architect and a cloud architect.

Job Duties

Although both roles involve creating and revising IT infrastructure, the duties of each professional can differ. An enterprise architect may focus on broad strategies for an organization, such as how to improve business processes or handle data management. They may also work with other professionals within a company, such as business analysts, project managers and information technology engineers, to develop these strategies.

A cloud architect may concentrate more specifically on the technical aspects of an IT system. For example, they may design specific cloud computing solutions, such as determining which software applications to use and what types of servers to deploy. A cloud architect may also collaborate with other professionals, but they’re likely to work closely with computer programmers and software developers the most.

Job Requirements

Enterprise architects typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering or another related field. They might also pursue a master’s degree or earn certifications to help them attract the attention of employers more easily. Enterprise architects can also pursue a certification through The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF), which is a globally recognized standard for enterprise architecture.

Cloud architects also need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering or another related field. They might also pursue a master’s degree or earn certifications to help them attract the attention of employers more easily. Cloud architects can also pursue a certification through Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Microsoft Azure, which are two of the most popular cloud computing platforms.

Work Environment

Both enterprise and cloud architects work in office environments, but their specific duties may differ. An enterprise architect typically works for a large company or organization that has many employees. They often collaborate with other departments to ensure the needs of all users are met. A cloud architect usually works for a smaller company or startup where they can have more direct contact with clients.

Enterprise architects may spend most of their time in an office setting, while cloud architects may travel frequently to meet with clients and attend conferences.

Skills

The specific skills used on the job by enterprise architects and cloud architects can differ depending on the company they work for and the products or services that company offers. However, there are some similarities between the two roles. Both enterprise architects and cloud architects need to have strong technical skills and be able to understand complex systems. They also both need to be able to effectively communicate with other members of their team, as well as customers or clients.

One key difference between enterprise architects and cloud architects is that enterprise architects typically need to have a more in-depth understanding of business concepts and processes, while cloud architects need to have a more comprehensive understanding of cloud computing technologies. Another difference is that enterprise architects typically work on long-term projects, while cloud architects may be more focused on shorter-term initiatives.

Salary

Enterprise architects earn an average salary of $144,955 per year, while cloud architects earn an average salary of $136,496 per year. Both of these average salaries may vary depending on the size of the company at which you work, location of your job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.