While a solution architect's primary role is not that of a developer, it can be beneficial for them to have experience as a developer and to continue to engage in some development tasks. Here are a few reasons why it is important for a solution architect to play the role of a developer:
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Understanding the Development Process: Having a background as a developer allows a solution architect to have a better understanding of the development process. They can better appreciate the challenges that developers face and can provide better guidance to the development team.
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Designing Better Solutions: When architects design solutions, they need to take into account the limitations and possibilities of the platform they are working on. By playing the role of a developer, architects can gain practical insights into the platform's capabilities and limitations, allowing them to design better solutions that are easier to implement.
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Efficient Communication: Communication between architects and developers is critical, and speaking the same language can help in communicating technical details more efficiently. By playing the role of a developer, architects can have a better understanding of the technical aspects of a project and can communicate more effectively with the development team.
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Better Troubleshooting: Sometimes, technical issues can arise during development, and having an architect with development experience can help troubleshoot and resolve these issues more efficiently.
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Leading by Example: Architects who continue to engage in development tasks lead by example and demonstrate their commitment to the project. This can help create a positive work environment and encourage the development team to produce high-quality work.