What is a Software Architect?

Last Updated on 2024-10-11

What does a software architect do? Find out their role in software development and how they can help your business grow. Let’s learn more about them.

The world of technology is rapidly evolving. With the advent of innovation, businesses are scaling faster than ever. And with so many emerging new technologies, there’s an even bigger demand for software experts. Businesses are clamoring to get their hands on the best experts for their projects.

One development role, in particular, is gaining higher demand. Zippia reports that there are over 417,477 software architects currently working in the US. And there are over 18,000 listings looking to hire software architects. But the most notable thing about this position is it’s difficult to find qualified candidates for it. Yes, a software architect has a specific set of skills and experience. Let’s learn more about why they’re in high demand.

Related Video: Building a Software Team Quickly and Affordably

What is a Software Architect

Software architects wear two hats: software engineer and business leader. They’ll be hands-on in development and in technical leadership. They are in charge of making high-level decisions on design, as well as framing technical standards. A software architect will choose the tools, platforms, and coding standards for the project.   

Qualification of a Software Architect

Because of the role’s complex obligations, a degree in Computer Science or Engineering is a minimum requirement. A combination of both soft and hard skills is important. They will need strong technical knowledge to make good decisions on tools and processes. And, they will also need soft skills for project management and team leadership. 

These are the primary responsibilities of the position:

• Provide technical direction to the development team
• Plan the software’s features, layout the prioritization, design, and release
• Take ownership of the entire software development lifecycle

Although the skills needed will vary based on the project, employers do have minimum requirements. Here are the most common qualifications companies look for.

Technical Qualifications:

• Familiar with modeling languages such as Unified Modeling Language (UML). The software architect should be able to communicate and create diagrams of complex architectures.
• Must have extensive knowledge of programming languages, especially the ones used in the project. The most used languages are Java, JavaScript, Ruby, Python, C, and COBOL.
• The software architect is responsible for creating a cohesive and efficient DevOps environment. Deep knowledge of software development practices such as Agile, Scrum, and Kanban is a must.

Non-technical Qualifications:

• Leadership – Able to lead and facilitate the development of a project. The software architect is responsible for coordinating everyone involved in development. Hence, communication and organization skills are essential.  
• Critical Thinking – Software development is an intricate process with inevitable roadblocks. A software architect should be able to solve problems and resolve conflicts.
• Communication Skills – The development team heavily relies on the instructions of the project leader. The software architect should be able to communicate project goals, deadlines, and expectations clearly and accurately.
• Organization and Prioritization Skills – Software architects work with large-scale, complicated UML diagrams, so they need to be systematic and organized. They should also be able to determine which tasks are a priority in product development.
• Creative Thinking – Leaders are responsible for coming up with alternative solutions when the team meets roadblocks. Likewise, they must quickly conceptualize and create a different roadmap if the original plans change.    

Where to Find and Hire Software Architects

Software architects are not easy to find. It is not an entry-level role, so that already limits the potential applicants. Also, it’s incredibly difficult to find someone who possesses both soft and hard skills. The candidate will need years of experience as a software developer and in a leadership position.  

Search Scope

The first tip in hiring software experts is to go beyond traditional recruitment. Because it’s such an in-demand position, you’ll undoubtedly have a small talent pool to draw from. You’ll have to go beyond posting job ads in publications or job boards. Use modern recruitment tools like social media and LinkedIn. They’ll allow you to connect with a much bigger network.

Of course, even if you found potential candidates for the job, there’s still the challenge of convincing them to join you. Again, you’ll be competing with other businesses to hire the top talent. So, be ready to pitch a good offer to the candidates.

Tips on Hiring

Once you know where to look for talent, be sure you can get the best of them. Here are some tips to help you determine whether someone’s a good match for your company.

• Create a specific job listing. Highlight the important information about the project. List down details such as requirements, technologies, tools, and expectations.
• Enlist the help of other tech experts to create the technical test and conduct technical interviews. You can also employ third-party services if you don’t have the technical background to do it.  
• Go beyond the formalities. Although skills and experience are important, character is also a big deal breaker. You have to make sure the candidate fits your company culture and can share the same vision in work.  

Be sure to read our other entry on software engineer hiring tips.  

Build your Development Team with Full Scale

The recruitment process is generally time-consuming. It’s especially taxing when it’s a highly technical position. Vetting qualified applicants, arranging interviews, and conducting exams; will take up substantial time and resources. Not to mention, you have to process the paperwork for successful hires and manage them afterward. Instead of focusing on your core operations, you’ll end up spending too much attention on hiring.

Consider outsourcing instead.

Many businesses have decided to outsource their development team. For one, it gives them a bigger talent pool, and it’s more affordable. Because of the developer shortage in the US, local talent can get expensive. On the other hand, developers from other countries have a more affordable rate.

Not familiar with outsourcing? Full Scale can arrange it for you.

Full Scale is a software development outsourcing firm that specializes in a wide range of business solutions. We can assist you in locating and recruiting the best candidates for the job. We’ll match you with skilled and experienced professionals based on your needs.

Build your software development team today! Talk to us.