Can a business analyst become a solution architect?

Question

Zippia Team · Accepted Answer

Yes, a business analyst can become a solution architect. It's not uncommon for a business analyst to move into a solution architect role. It's a great transition for a business analyst who enjoys technology enough to keep up with the latest platforms, tools, and technologies.

Both positions have some overlap since both roles primarily involve information technology.

A key difference is that business analysts must know how the systems work to advise clients how best to correct technological issues on a micro level, while solutions architects work behind the scenes to create the network infrastructure on a macro level.

As a business analyst, you have already completed many of the requirements needed to be a solutions architect.

First, you need to begin to gain a complete understanding of what's happening behind the scenes, such as existing infrastructure, networks, interfaces, and ETL tools. One way to accomplish this is to familiarize yourself with different solutions' intricacies, pros, and cons.

Once you have a solid foundation, set up meetings with lower-level current system architects to ask deeper questions like, "Why are they doing API calls instead of web services?"

If possible, try to find a mentor who works as a system architect to help show you the ropes. Finally, get the word out there that you're interested in transitioning to a career in systems architecture.