IT architect

Job Description:

Also called IT architect

In summary

Enterprise architects build a holistic view of an organisation’s strategy, processes, information and IT assets. They take this knowledge and ensure the business and IT are aligned. A lot of what an enterprise architect does focuses less on technology, and more on people, processes and the organisation.

An enterprise architect may

*take long-term responsibility for an organisation’s IT systems
*assess and communicate the impacts, trade-offs, risks, costs, benefits and opportunities of IT solutions
*align and/or streamline business processes, IT and business strategy
*develop and implement a strategy for reducing the complexity of information systems in a cost *effective manner, for example by decreasing the number of applications or moving away from legacy systems
*define the architecture and technology standards for all applications and infrastructure across *the organisation, and ensure those standards are published, updated and made widely available.

What learning areas and study is needed?

*Entry to this occupation is generally through technology bachelor degree or higher qualification
*Enterprise Architecture Certification is highly beneficial, such as IT Architect Certification, The *Open Group Architect Framework Certification or a Master of Enterprise Architecture
*Business or management qualification or experience is beneficial
*A primary discipline in IT is important, such as applications development or information systems management

This career would appeal to people who

*are big picture thinkers
*have good interpersonal, leadership, collaboration, facilitation and negotiation skills
*are able to manage conflict
*have excellent communication skills, and can explain complex technical issues in a way that *non-technical people can understand
*have a blend of business acumen, large-scale IT system know-how, governance and operations
*understand any given problem may have many good answers, and asks great questions that *compel further discussion, research, collaboration and innovation
*consider technology in terms of business benefits rather than the technological cool factor
*enjoy constantly expanding their knowledge base, and identifying and being able to form *opinions on emerging trends and technologies

Remuneration and job prospects?

According to the Michael Page Salary Survey 2007/08, enterprise architects earn between $125,000 and $200,000 per annum, depending on experience.