Data Architect

Data architects are accountable for the structure, design, and maintenance of data typically organized in the form of a relational database. Data architects ensure the reliability and accessibility of information that is relevant for an organisation or a project. The administration and management of data is extremely technical and requires advanced knowledge of computers as well as proficiency in data-oriented computer programming languages like SQL as well as XML.

An effective data architect should have superior analytical abilities and be a detail-oriented person. Data architects need the capacity to effectively communicate, since they are typically an integral part of the group within an IT department. In addition, a data architect is likely to need to explain complicated technical concepts to staff who are not tech-savvy. Because the development of logical data workflows and models are typical, a data architect should also demonstrate sophisticated visualization abilities, and also be able to solve problems with a creative approach.

For the majority of positions in the field of data architecture it is required to have a bachelor's qualification in computer science related area is required. An advanced degree is usually preferable. Data architects are typically employed by a business or educational institution to oversee the management of huge amounts of internal information and data structures. The majority of work is done using a computer, whether at the desk of an office or at a site; thus data architects need to be capable of sitting for long durations of time. Data architects typically work for longer than 40 hours per week, tackling issues or completing deadlines, particularly during the most crucial phases of projects.

Data Architect's Responsibilities in India:

• Creating data models to design and implement data architecture solutions that meet business requirements and comply with industry standards and regulations.
• Managing data integration and ensuring data consistency, accuracy, and integrity across various systems.
• Developing and implementing data governance policies and procedures to ensure data security, privacy, and compliance.
• Identifying and resolving database performance issues, optimizing queries and ensuring overall data system performance meets or exceeds user expectations.

As a Data Architect with 6-9 years of experience in India, some of the key qualifications that you should possess are:

• Strong analytical skills and the ability to gather and interpret complex data sets.
• Comprehensive understanding of database management systems, big data technologies, and data warehousing.
• Expertise in data modeling, schema design, and performance optimization.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with other teams and stakeholders and present technical data in a clear and concise manner.

The role of a Data Architect demands a specific set of skills and experience. Here are four alternative job roles that someone with 6-9 years of experience in India and a background in data architecture could consider:

• Data Analyst: An individual with a knack for analyzing data to provide insights and recommendations to improve business performance.
• Database Administrator: A role that entails managing database systems, troubleshooting performance issues, and ensuring data security & accuracy.
• Business Intelligence Analyst: An individual who liaises between technical and business teams to provide valuable data-driven insights that can help drive strategic decisions.
• Cloud Solutions Architect: A professional who helps design, deploy and manage cloud-based solutions for businesses that help meet their operational or strategic needs.

The role of Data Architect in India is projected to witness significant growth in the market. Over the past 10 years, the demand for Data Architects has been increasing steadily, primarily due to the rapid digital transformation across industries. According to recent data from Google, this trend is expected to continue in the future, indicating a surge in job opportunities for Data Architects. As businesses increasingly rely on data-driven decision making, the need for professionals who can design and manage complex data architecture will expand.