A systems architect designs and implements systems, translating user visions into engineering terms. They must understand an organization’s structure and work with stakeholders to determine timelines and budgets. Troubleshooting and testing are also important aspects of the job.
A systems architect provides top-level system design in the field of systems engineering. By creating a solid framework, the systems architect ensures that a system can grow, evolve, and endure. System architects plan and implement system builds and updates and are often tasked with delegating responsibilities to appropriate parties.
In essence, the systems architect can translate the user’s vision – be it an automated production line in a factory or a sewer system in a new tall building – into engineering terms. The systems architect provides the practical elements by which this vision can be achieved. By creating a strong yet flexible core design, the systems architect lays the groundwork for innovation and advancement. Good design also allows recovery from a variety of setbacks and potential system damage.
Before creating a new system, the systems architect must study an organization and fully understand its structure. As the position requires extensive research, the architect must be able to interact with individuals at all levels of an organization, from top management to end users. System architects also work closely with technical solution providers to ensure that the envisioned system is a practical possibility and is designed for optimal strength.
Some of the systems architect’s key responsibilities include communicating with various stakeholders to understand what they need from the system and determining a timeline and budget to meet those needs. Systems architects also decide which methods are best for achieving design goals. They usually organize system elements into parts that can be managed by teams or individuals with expertise in that particular area.
Systems architects often work in a variety of ways to communicate the details of an evolving system. They can write a user guide, create sketches, or create models and prototypes. They often work with a team to stay in constant touch with the changing details of the system design and stay on top of the system development seen from different perspectives. While keeping relevant individuals informed is an important part of the job, a system architect also works to optimize the system so that a minimum of communication is required.
There is also a great deal of troubleshooting in the position, as the system architect must work with team members to resolve issues that arise over the course of system development and evolution. They must be analytical, practical and able to consider multiple elements when addressing these issues. System architects often work with a team to test the system to try and anticipate problems before they happen.
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