Software Engineer vs Architect

I previously wrote an article on Software Engineer vs Sr. Software Engineer and received an overwhelming response. This time I want to shed light on what a Software Architect does differently compared to a Jr./Sr. Software Engineer.

1. Technical Design of the System

Software Engineers usually implement an already created design. They also add new features to the existing technical design of the system.

Software Architects will analyze the gaps in the software system and create new design documents for reference. They ensure that the design is ambiguity-free because it will be implemented by engineers in the future.

2. The Code

Software Engineers write good quality code and implement a system. They make sure a certain functionality is completed for integration with the entire application workflow.

Software Architects also write code. The difference is that they create an initial framework or base classes and define interfaces of the system. They remain involved in understanding all features until they are integrated and tested.

3. Application Ownership

Software Engineers possess ownership of the features they implement. They ensure the app is tested and integrated, and take account of issues during application integration and maintenance.

Software Architects take up end-to-end application ownership including all features that make up the complete product. They predict integration issues before features are merged and are responsible for the requirement-to-delivery match.

4. Project Roadmap

Software Engineers know about the current project roadmap and ensure tasks are completed that achieve the required software functionality.

Software Architects are involved in creating these roadmaps, timelines, and are responsible for delivery deadlines and code cut-off dates. They break the epic into independent tasks for distribution among engineers.

5. What's Next?

Software Engineers usually make sure the software implementation + testing is completed and wait for the next functionality to implement.

Software Architects have a pretty good idea about what's coming next. They don't wait for inputs. They create opportunities and investigate gaps in the system, keeping them ready for proposing solutions to Leadership.