What does hiring an IT architect entail?

The role of the IT architect in projects and organizations

An IT architect is responsible for creating a high-level technical vision and structure of information systems. His main tasks include analyzing business and non-functional requirements, designing the architecture of the solution (choice of technology, design patterns, component structure, integration principles), taking care of quality aspects (performance, security, reliability, maintainability), supervising the work of development teams for compliance with the adopted architecture and making key technological decisions. The architect acts as a technical leader and mentor for the team.

When do companies choose to hire an architect?

The need to hire an external IT architect arises in various situations:

• Designing new, complex systems: The company needs an experienced architect to design a key system from scratch.
• Modernization of existing systems: Need to redesign or refactor outdated architecture (e.g., migration from monolith to microservices).
• Architecture assessment and audit: Need to independently assess existing architecture for quality, scalability or security.
• Strategic technology selection: Need for support in making key decisions about the technology stack for new projects or the organization as a whole.
• Lack of in-house architectural expertise: The company does not permanently employ architects with the required level of experience or specialization.
• Temporary or project needs: The need for architectural support is limited to a specific project or phase of the software lifecycle.

Responsibilities and cooperation model

A hired IT architect can be involved in a project in a variety of capacities – from full-time participation for the entire duration of the project, to ad hoc consulting or auditing. The cooperation most often takes place in the T&M model, reflecting the high value and strategic nature of the architect’s work. It is crucial to precisely define the scope of responsibility, expected deliverables (e.g., architectural documentation, technology recommendations) and relationships with the project team and business stakeholders.

Benefits of hiring an IT architect

Engaging an external IT architect brings a number of benefits:

• Access to top-notch expertise: The opportunity to benefit from the knowledge and experience of a high-class specialist who would be difficult to hire on a permanent basis.
• Architecture and technology optimization: Design efficient, scalable and future-proof solutions, avoid costly architectural mistakes.
• Reducing technical risks: Ensuring that the project is implemented in accordance with best engineering and architectural practices.
• Knowledge transfer: The opportunity to improve the competence of the internal team by working with an experienced architect.
• Independent consulting: Obtain objective technological and architectural recommendations.

Requirements for the supplier

Vendors offering to hire IT architects must have staff with exceptionally high competence, broad technological knowledge, strategic thinking and communication skills. The process of selecting and vetting such specialists is extremely demanding and demonstrates the maturity of the company providing the services.