Which skill set is important for enterprise architects?

The importance of having a high-level understanding of both IT and business for enterprise architects cannot be overstated. This skill set enables them to effectively align technology strategies with business goals. Enterprise architects are responsible for designing and managing the architecture of an organization's IT systems in a way that not only meets current needs but also supports future growth.

Having a broad perspective allows enterprise architects to see how different IT components interact and how these interactions impact overall business processes. It equips them to communicate effectively with both technical teams and business stakeholders, ensuring that solutions are both technically feasible and aligned with business objectives. This strategic insight is essential for long-term planning, risk management, and ensuring that the IT architecture evolves in tandem with business needs.

In contrast, focusing solely on IT support, specialization in programming languages, or expertise in hardware maintenance would limit an enterprise architect’s effectiveness. These areas are too narrow for the multifaceted role of an enterprise architect, which requires a holistic understanding of how technology drives business success.