The Ultimate Software Architect Knowledge Map

Becoming a Software Architect is a journey where you are always learning. But there are some things you must definitely strive to know.

Essential Skills for Software Architects

• Master a Programming Language

  Look to master 1-2 programming languages such as Java, Python, Golang, JavaScript, etc.

• Tools

  Build proficiency with key tools such as GitHub, Jenkins, Jira, ELK, Sonar, etc.

• Design Principles

  Learn about important design principles such as OOPS, Clean Code, TDD, DDD, CAP Theorem, MVC Pattern, ACID, and GOF.

• Architectural Principles

  Become proficient in multiple architectural patterns such as Microservices, Publish-Subscribe, Layered, Event-Driven, Client-Server, Hexagonal, etc.

• Platform Knowledge

  Get to know about several platforms such as containers, orchestration, cloud, serverless, CDN, API Gateways, Distributed Systems, and CI/CD

• Data Analytics

  Build a solid knowledge of data and analytics components like SQL and NoSQL databases, data streaming solutions with Kafka, object storage, data migration, OLAP, and so on.

• Networking and Security

  Learn about networking and security concepts such as DNS, TCP, TLS, HTTPS, Encryption, JWT, OAuth, and Credential Management.

• Supporting Skills

  Apart from technical, software architects also need several supporting skills such as decision-making, technology knowledge, stakeholder management, communication, estimation, leadership, etc.