Solutions Architect vs. Software Architect: What Are the Differences?
Learn about the two careers and review some of the similarities and differences between them.
A solutions architect and software architect are both responsible for designing and oversee the development of software solutions. However, there are key differences between the two roles. In this article, we compare and contrast solutions architects and software architects, including job duties, skills, and salary expectations.
What is a Solutions Architect?
A Solutions Architect is responsible for the design and implementation of technical solutions that meet the business needs of an organization. They work with stakeholders to understand the business requirements, then translate those requirements into a technical solution. Solutions Architects must have a strong understanding of technology and how it can be used to solve business problems. They work with a variety of teams, including developers, engineers and project managers, to ensure that the technical solution meets the business requirements. Solutions Architects typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.
What is a Software Architect?
A Software Architect is responsible for the design, development and maintenance of software applications. They work with software engineers to determine the best way to create, test and deploy software solutions. Software Architects also collaborate with other departments within a company to ensure that the software meets the needs of the business. They create detailed documentation and diagrams of the software design and architecture. Software Architects typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. They also have experience working with various programming languages and software development tools.
Solutions Architect vs. Software Architect
Here are the main differences between a solutions architect and a software architect.
Job Duties
Solutions architects and software architects share some of their job duties. These shared duties include researching, planning and conducting feasibility studies. Another duty that both professionals share is creating architecture documents to guide future implementation. The primary difference between the two roles is that a solutions architect creates documentation for nontechnical stakeholders, while a software architect creates documentation for technical stakeholders.
Other job duties that solutions architects typically perform more often than software architects include identifying business requirements and translating them into technical requirements. Solutions architects also regularly conduct usability testing to ensure that users can easily navigate any systems they develop. Software architects typically spend more time developing high-level design strategies and evaluating proposed architectures. They also commonly perform security assessments to identify potential risks in existing systems.
Job Requirements
Solutions architects and software architects both need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. They also need experience in the software development process, as well as knowledge of multiple programming languages. Some employers prefer candidates to have a master’s degree in computer science or a related field, but it is not always required.
In addition to their educational requirements, solutions architects and software architects must also be able to obtain a certification from the American Institute of Certified Architects (AICA). To become certified, candidates must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of the architectural profession. Candidates must also have at least three years of experience working as an architect.
Work Environment
Solutions architects work in a variety of environments, depending on the company they’re working for. They may spend time in an office setting or travel to clients’ locations to meet with them and discuss their needs. Software architects typically work in offices, but some also travel to visit clients.
Both positions require long hours during projects, so solutions architects and software architects often work overtime when necessary. Solutions architects may have more irregular schedules than software architects because of this.
Skills
Both software architects and solutions architects use technical skills to perform their jobs. This includes understanding computer science concepts, like algorithms, data structures and software design patterns. They also need to be able to write code in at least one programming language and have experience working with multiple platforms, like Windows, Linux and macOS.
However, their responsibilities can differ, which can require different skills. For example, a solutions architect may need to have project management skills to oversee the implementation of their designs. They also need to be able to effectively communicate with non-technical staff and clients to ensure they understand the proposed solution.
A software architect typically focuses on the design of the software itself. This can require them to have more in-depth knowledge of software development methodologies, like Agile or waterfall. They also may need to be familiar with multiple frameworks and libraries to be able to create robust software solutions.
Salary
The average salary for a solutions architect is $130,598 per year, while the average salary for a software architect is $136,732 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the size of the company, the location of the job and the level of experience the architect has.