Solutions architect

Career path and progression

You could progress to senior or lead solutions architect then move on to an enterprise architect role.

You could also take up wider IT project management jobs, strategy planning or become a consultant.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• maths knowledge
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• knowledge of systems analysis and development
• persistence and determination
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• to be flexible and open to change
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Computer Science - Solutions architects design and oversee the creation of new computer systems, which requires deep understanding of software development, system architecture, and how different technologies work together. They need to evaluate technical options, understand programming concepts, and ensure that proposed solutions are technically sound and scalable.
• Mathematics - Solutions architects use mathematical thinking when assessing system performance, modelling costs, and evaluating the efficiency of different technical approaches. Logical reasoning and problem-solving – core mathematical skills – are essential when designing complex systems that need to handle large amounts of data or high numbers of users.
• Business - Solutions architects need to understand their client's business strategy, goals, and how the organisation operates before designing a technical solution. They assess the costs, risks, and benefits of different options, which requires strong commercial awareness and the ability to think about technology in business terms.

Also relevant

• Economics - Solutions architects evaluate the costs and benefits of different system designs and need to understand how technology investments affect an organisation's finances and competitiveness. Understanding concepts like cost-benefit analysis and resource allocation helps them recommend solutions that deliver real value.
• Physics - Solutions architects benefit from understanding how hardware, networks, and infrastructure work at a fundamental level. Physics builds the kind of analytical and systems-thinking skills that help when designing solutions involving servers, cloud platforms, and data transfer.
• English Language - Solutions architects spend a lot of time communicating complex technical ideas to non-technical clients, writing proposals, and producing clear documentation. Being able to explain system designs in plain language and tailor communication to different audiences is a key part of the role.
• Design and Technology - Solutions architects follow a structured design process – identifying requirements, exploring options, prototyping, and refining – that mirrors the iterative approach used in design and technology. Understanding how to move from a brief to a working solution is central to the role.