A Technical Architect is someone with the knowledge and skills necessary to design and create effective technical solutions. In order to become a TA, you need to be a thinker and a problem-solver with a command of architectural principles. You need to plan long-term, creating solutions that will help your client or company go from zero to millions of customers. Suffice it to say, becoming a Technical Architect isn’t a piece of cake. However, there are habits that you can pick up to build yourself into this prestigious position.

The customs that we will talk about below are going to help you overcome Technical Architect’s daily challenges in software development, including:

  • increasing the effectiveness and/or decreasing the cost (senior management);
  • improving daily duties (business users);
  • creating a safe, stable and supported environment (IT support).

1. Orient yourself towards problem-solving

Whether you’re busy designing a system or trying to meet the needs of your client, your work is about solving problems. Design problems, technical problems, communication problems, there is an infinite number of problems that can arise. The solution often requires a change of perspective—yours as well as your team’s or client’s. Thus, you need to be a negotiator.

Problem-solving is in large part about honing your social and communication skills. It’s one thing to find a technical solution, but it’s something else to convince others to go with it. That’s why no software house would hire a lone wolf for the job.

2. The world is numbers – you understand math

The entire idea of architecture is based on the rules and limitations of mathematics. To become a TA, you need to understand maths, with an emphasis on geometry and algebra. Since there’s no escaping this subject, it also helps to actually enjoy working with numbers.

3. Don’t be afraid to use your imagination and learn key soft skills

You might think that there’s nothing creative about maths, but being open-minded and having bold ideas is actually a huge advantage. After all, the mission of every Technical Architect is implementing reliable solutions. It is important to achieve a balance between stability and modern, innovative solutions that allow you to develop and scale a product or service. Practical experience is also crucial for designing and building secure, performant solutions on the Salesforce platform. As you advance, you will acquire practical experience in managing design decisions and defending them with real-world examples.

4. Be open to ideas

No one expects you to know everything. Even the best TA doesn’t have the answer to every question. Software development is about teamwork, and it’s important to be open to ideas from other people. Openness is one of the basic SCRUM values. Learn key soft skills to prepare for the Salesforce CTA review board exam and build a strong command of architectural principles and strategies.

It’s always good to listen to your co-workers, even if you’re their superior. Their suggestions, anecdotes, or experiences from their past projects may bring that one breakthrough idea you desperately need.

5. Never assume you’re right

Why? Because it’s not about being right or wrong. Usually, you won’t be able to tell who’s right until the work is over. You need to have confidence and strong vision, but also keep in mind that there are things beyond your control. Surprising technological breakthroughs, political changes, suddenly emerging competition, a tragedy that impacts the economy – are some examples of situations that can happen beyond your control.

It takes years to properly review any project, and only in hindsight can you see all the factors that led to a specific conclusion. Expect the unexpected, consult, and educate yourself. Additionally, reviewing vital architectural concepts is crucial for building a comprehensive understanding of essential principles necessary for creating scalable solutions and effectively preparing for the Salesforce CTA review board exam.

6. Follow tech news

Do you want to innovate? Then you need to know the wider context of your work. What’s the technical standard today? What will it be in six months? Or two years? Are there any technologies you should consider applying, or at least getting ready for? Following the IT industry is a must. And just like with maths, it really helps if you enjoy it. Understanding the role of a solution architect is also crucial in designing secure, scalable technical solutions on platforms like Salesforce.

To achieve this, it’s essential to explore various strategies to prepare for certification exams and build a solid foundation in architectural principles.

7. See if LEGO blocks still entertain you

Just buy yourself a set. It doesn’t have to be a big one. If you spend half an hour with it and think it’s boring and childish, maybe being a TA isn’t for you.

The thing is, Technical Architect builds stuff. Software development is not that different from playing with LEGO. In both cases, you work with pieces that you can creatively combine to come up with something new. If you don’t find any enjoyment in doing this with building blocks, there’s a chance that working at a software house won’t be a good fit. Additionally, preparing for the

CTA review board involves using various study materials like video courses, audiobooks, and ebooks to master architecture principles and presentation skills. Utilizing these resources will equip learners with essential architectural concepts and soft skills necessary to effectively present their solutions, ultimately leading to a higher chance of passing the Salesforce CTA review board exam.

8. Understand that being a Technical Architect isn’t an end in itself, prepare for the cta review

Before you start this adventure, you need to realize its destination. Because finally getting the prestigious title of Technical Architect requires a strong command of architectural principles and strategies.

No, this journey never ends. The technology around you will keep changing, and you will always have to learn, evolve and adapt. If you ascend to the summit and stop, the mountain you just climbed is going to outgrow you. Thus, the position of Technical Architect is only for those who actually enjoy learning and discovering new things. There are many potential development directions. You can become, for example, a Strategic Architect, and maybe even CTO someday.

Embark on a journey to develop your mindset. Being a Technical Architect does not mean that you will no longer code. We described here how to find time for coding in an architect’s work. Because it’s still your passion, isn’t it?

9. Understanding Architectural Principles

Understanding architectural principles is crucial for any Salesforce architect aiming to achieve the CTA certification. These principles encompass designing and building high-performance, secure, and scalable Salesforce solutions. The book “Becoming a Salesforce Certified Technical Architect” provides detailed insights into architectural principles and their practical applications.

With a solid grasp of these principles, Salesforce architects can create solutions that not only meet client requirements but also align with industry best practices. This understanding enables the development of systems that are both efficient and future-proof, which is essential in the rapidly evolving world of technology. Preparing for the Salesforce CTA review board exam with confidence and comprehensive knowledge is key to success. 

10. Developing Technical Skills

Developing technical skills is essential for any Salesforce architect aiming to achieve the CTA certification. This includes an in-depth understanding of the Salesforce platform, its features, and capabilities. The book “Becoming a Salesforce Certified Technical Architect” provides valuable insights into developing these skills and their practical applications.

By continuously improving their technical expertise, Salesforce architects can create solutions that are not only effective but also highly efficient. This allows for better utilization of the Salesforce platform’s capabilities, leading to improved outcomes for clients and organizations. A crucial aspect of this process is the ability to prepare and deliver a solution presentation effectively.

11. Teamwork and Communication

Teamwork and communication are essential for any Salesforce architect aiming to achieve the CTA certification. Collaborating with team members is crucial for reaching common goals. Effective communication involves conveying information and ideas clearly and comprehensibly to all team members.

By fostering strong teamwork and communication skills, Salesforce architects can develop solutions that are not only effective but also highly efficient, leading to better results and greater client satisfaction.

Additionally, the ability to create a winning presentation is critical for effectively conveying solutions and ideas.

The CTA Review Board

The CTA Review Board is a panel of experts responsible for evaluating the skills and knowledge of candidates aspiring to become Salesforce Certified Technical Architects. The CTA Review Board exam is a critical step in achieving this prestigious certification. Candidates must prepare and present a comprehensive architectural solution, which is then assessed by a panel of experts.

This process requires not only an in-depth understanding of the Salesforce platform but also strong presentation skills and the ability to defend design decisions. Preparing for this exam involves mastering key architectural principles, design strategies, and gaining hands-on experience in building Salesforce solutions.

Candidates who successfully navigate this rigorous process have a higher chance of earning the Salesforce Certified Technical Architect title, opening new career opportunities and validating their expertise in technical architecture.