💃 Are all architects created equally? 🕺

Good morning, Salesforce Nerds! Anybody out there striving to become an architect?

That coveted title designated for the top tier technologist that knows everything about your landscape, is called upon by all levels in the org & can seemingly solve any problem. 💯 

I get it. 👍️ 

We all want to be in a position to help our clients with their problems.

And we all want that payday! 🤑 

Just be aware that there are different types of architects. If you’re aiming to reach this level you’ll want to understand the differences …

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Are all architects created equally?

• Architect Overview

• Application Architect

• System Architect

• Enterprise Architect

THE HIGH COUNCIL

Architect Overview

Generally speaking, an architect is a super-senior level engineer that’s responsible for high-level design choices related to the structure & behavior of an application or multiple applications. 🏗️ 

But, not all architects do the same stuff.

As technology evolves faster and faster these roles also evolve and organizations are honing in exactly the type of architect they need. ⏩️ 

Smaller organizations with a smaller technology footprint can get by with a single person wearing many different architecture hats.

Larger organizations with scores or hundreds of applications/services are going to need to hire specialized talent to ensure reliability and scalability.

This is where it’s handy to know about some of the differences in responsibilities for architects … 👇️ 

THE JEDI KNIGHT

Application Architect

An application architect focuses on the design and development of specific software applications. 🧑‍💻 

They work closely with devs, PM’s, and business stakeholders to create app-specific solutions that meet business requirements.

Their focus is on the technical details of the app like:

✅ UI Design

✅ Data modeling

✅ Application design/implementation

In the world of Salesforce, this person will be tasked with coming up with the Object schema, deciding if a solution is no-code, low-code, or pro-code, & making sure the right users can see the right data. ☁️ 

A lot of times senior level dev’s will naturally transition into this role.

There can be some overlap in duties between an app architect and a senior/lead dev. Both will spend time designing, mentoring, and troubleshooting. 💯 

A big difference is that an app architect really won’t write too much code.

If you dig the design phase and setting standards for developers then this may be a fruitful path for you to follow. 🍇 

THE JEDI MASTER

System Architect

A system architect focuses on the design and development of a system that consists of multiple components, such as hardware, software, and networking. 🧑‍💻 

They are responsible for ensuring that all the components of the system work together seamlessly to meet business requirements.

Their focus is on the technical details of the system like:

✅ Integration of hardware and software

✅ Architecture of the overall system

✅ System security

Think of a “system” as several separate applications, config files, documents, etc. that all operate together and need work as a whole. 🤝 

Meaning, this person is responsible for more than just a single application. He/She is in charge of multiple apps! Ensuring they all play nicely and accomplish the needs of the business.

This is something a lead dev or app architect can transition into rather comfortably so long as they understand more than just the app they’re working on. 🧠 

You’ll need to have an understanding of what each app/service within the system does, what it’s dependencies are, and understand the role they play.

If you want to branch out and be responsible for more than just a Salesforce app then this may be a viable option.

THE MASTER OF THE ORDER

Enterprise Architect

An enterprise architect takes a broader perspective, focusing on the organization as a whole rather than specific applications or systems. 🧑‍💼 

They work closely with business stakeholders to understand business goals and objectives, and they design and develop solutions that align with these goals.

They are responsible for ensuring that all the components of the organization, such as business processes, technology, and people, work together seamlessly to meet business objectives. 🔥 

Imagine being the one person responsible for EVERY application, EVERY database, EVERY service, EVERY config, EVERY piece of technical documentation in your organization.

That’s what these folks do. 🤯 

This not only requires deep knowledge of industry standard technologies, but also a deep knowledge of the entire business domain.

If you want to be THE ONE for an organization then this role might be right up your alley. 🫵 

SOUL FOOD

Today’s Principle

and now....Salesforce Memes