A software architect is defined by a set of values and attitude. Every developer who joins a company secretly desires to be a Team Leader or Software Architect. So, what's the checklist? How do you know if you are on the way to becoming an architect?
I am going to list 8 signs that secretly tell you that you CAN be the next Software/Technical Architect in your company.
#8. You understand that Change is the ONLY Constant
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No matter what you do, requirements always change. Code is always tweaked. A technical architect always builds for change. If you understand this and adapt your thinking process accordingly you are on the right track!
#7. Ability to say NO
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In the initial few days, software developers tend to say Yes to everything. An architect goes beyond the client requirements to find out if the requirements really make sense in the first place.
So, instead of saying "Yes, we can do it" an architect doesn't hesitate to ask more questions such as "Do you even need this?", "Why do you need this specific thing?", "Doesn't it make sense to do this in a different way" etc...
#6. For you there is nothing called a "Perfect Technology"
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You don't fall in love with a particular technology and preach it everywhere you go. You think it's non-sense and no language is perfect. If you are requirement driven, and believe in analysing the scenario first you have passed test #6 as well. Congrats!
#5. You see the big picture
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You see the entire project as a set of interacting components. This is what sets you apart from other people in the project who are feature/functionality driven. An architect keeps an eye on functionalities, but never misses the big picture.
#4. Never afraid to learn something new
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An architect never stops learning and is never hesitant to experiment with new technologies. However, it's not necessarily true that the architect must use new and cutting edge tech always. As with anything in life, careful examination must be done before finalising the technology.
That being said, an architect is prepared to take risk with something new that has ability to solve a customer's problem.
#3. Welcome Ideas
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Most of the times, the architect is the key source of idea in a team. However, there is nothing wrong in adapting ideas that originate elsewhere. If you keep an open mind, and welcome others' ideas you will have a better team and work environment.
#2. You understand that success in IT comes from people
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An architect works as an interpreter between developers who do actual work and the top management which views the project in terms of money and resource. So, if you are a people person, you are the perfect fit for "Architect" role.
#1. You are a clear communicator
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Like it or not, this role is all about understanding requirements, giving advice, managing risk and delivering efficient solutions. So, if communication is not one of your many skills you may not handle these key deliverables.
An architect is always crystal clear in terms communication and makes sure everyone in the team and management is on the same page.
So, what are you waiting for? If you think you have most of the above qualities and are willing to improve in other areas, go have a chat with your manager!
This is my first article here. Let me know what you think in comments below. :)