The purpose of a Solution Architecture is not just to ensure a technically superior solution. An effective Solution Architecture enables the distributed design of a technically superior solution.

As such, a Solution Architect is not simply a senior technical designer. An effective Solution Architect combinations the skills of a technologist, business analysis, and change agent to visualise and drive the delivery of the overall solution.

The term 'solution' implies a fit within a particular business context and challenge. The Solution Architect needs to define that business context (and the required business transformation) with the same rigor as the technical components of the solution.

Once the layered solution architecture is defined, the Solution Architect switches to change agent mode � ensuring the delivery programme contains the most effective set of projects and work streams to ensure successful delivery.