The data architect: the nexus in the data-driven application landscape
What do data architects do? As an architect, you ensure that data (from source to reports) flows smoothly, securely and in a structured way throughout the IT landscape. You describe the desired data landscape, establish technical and functional models and translate business strategy into data-driven solutions.
Data architects are familiar with both classic enterprise environments and modern cloud environments, and with tools such as Azure, GCP and Snowflake. They are responsible for the design of data platforms, the integration of data sources and compliance with laws and regulations.
A good data architect oversees the entire picture: from infrastructure to process, from governance to technology – and knows how to convey complex matters to business and IT simply.
These skills make a data architect successful
A good data architect is more than just a technical expert. You link strategy to practice, and technology to people. You have the following data architect skill set:
- Strategic insight: As a data architect, you translate business objectives into a clear data strategy and develop future-proof roadmaps for data flows.
- Analytical capacity: Data architects systematically analyze complex data flows and the underlying technologies, and present these clearly.
- Communication skills: Through clear presentations and persuasive argumentation, data architects are able to achieve buy-in from both IT colleagues and business partners.
- Stakeholder management: Architects conjoin interests, encourage collaboration, and facilitate properly informed decision-making.
- Leadership: With substantive guidance and clear vision, data architects act as both a point of contact and as a conscience within the data strategy.
Vital professional knowledge for data architects
Data architects build not only structures, they also build confidence. This demands a broad and up-to-date knowledge of technology, platforms and legislation. These topics form the core of the profession:
- Principles of data architecture: Solid basic knowledge of reference architectures, data models, data flows and integration patterns are essential for data architects.
- Cloud data platforms: Would you like to excel as a data architect? Then familiarity with platforms such as Azure (e.g. Data Factory and Databricks), Google BigQuery or AWS Snowflake is a must.
- Modeling & DMBOK: An understanding of data modeling and frameworks such as DMBOK is needed for a robust data governance approach.
- Data engineering tools: Experience with such tools as Python, Spark, Kafka, Kubernetes and Docker help data architects achieve scalable and robust solutions.
- Security & compliance: Architects are attentive to privacy, regulations and compliance – from the GDPR to industry-specific standards.
- Certifications: Consider AZ-303/304, DP-203, GCP Professional Architect or AWS Solution Architect Professional, for example, depending on the platform landscape.
The must-have education for a data architect according to Capgemini
Do you wish to retrain to become a data architect, or to expand your knowledge in data-driven architecture? Then there are several training courses that jointly form a solid foundation. Whether you’re already in a data role or in technical architecture, you build directly on your new profile with these modules.
- Architecture Fundamentals (NL): This training course provides a solid foundation in architectural principles, structures and ways of thinking. Ideal for those transferring from data engineering or analysis.
- TOGAF® Enterprise Architecture Foundation (NL): Learn how to structure and embed complete enterprise architectures, with TOGAF as the internationally recognized framework.
- Introduction to Data Platforms (NL): Get acquainted with modern data platforms in the cloud, such as Azure, Snowflake and GCP, and how to deploy these at the architectural level.
- Introduction to Data Management based on DMBOK (NL): Obtain insight into data quality, governance and policy using the DMBOK framework – essential for every data architect.
These training courses provide the foundation for your role as a data architect or big data architect and prepare you for more intensive certification courses.
View all data architect training courses at Capgemini
A data architect must be able to do more than just build models. You operate on the cutting edge of strategy, technology and communication. For this reason, Capgemini Academy also offers courses in governance, change management and personal effectiveness, in addition to the technical training courses – so that you as an architect can grow in the full breadth of your profession.
In-depth study of data architecture
Expand your technical knowledge with in-depth training courses in data quality, modeling and integration.
- Introduction to Data Quality (NL): Learn how to make data quality quantifiable and to improve this within complex data flows.
- Data Management & Data Governance (NL): Get a grip on ownership, data standards and governance structures.
- Introduction to Linked Data (NL): Get acquainted with semantic web technology and the power of linked data sets.
- Introduction to Data-Driven Development (EN): Discover how development processes change in a data-driven context.
Compliance, privacy & governance
For those responsible for secure, transparent and legally justified data platforms.
- Data Security and Privacy in a Data-driven Organization (EN): Learn how to translate legislation and privacy principles into technical solutions.
Strategy and organization development
Ensure that you not only perform as a data architect, but also provide guidance to data-driven transformation.
- SAFe for Architects (NL): Learn to apply architectural principles within Agile transformations at scale.
- Becoming a Data-Driven Enterprise for C-level (NL): Develop the strategic insight needed to help guide organizations based on data.
Soft skills & communication
Technical knowledge shows its value only if you can convince, present and connect.
- Trusted Advisor (NL): Position yourself as both a substantive authority and a reliable discussion partner.
- Pyramid Principle (NL): Apply structure to your recommendations using stringent logic and persuasive power.
- Professional presenting – Fundamentals or Advanced: Work on self-confidence and on the structure and impact of your story.
- Storytelling (NL): Use narrative thinking to convey your vision within and beyond IT.
- Professional Presence & Profile (NL): Develop a style and image that fit with your senior role.
- Realistic Persuasion (NL): Learn how to convince people effectively in substantive decisions.
Future-focused working
Learn to work with GenAI and consider data ethics and new forms of data guidance.
- GenAI for Architects (NL): Discover how to integrate generative AI into architectural visions and data platforms.
These training courses enable you, as a data architect, to strengthen not only your technical foundation, but also your strategic insight, communication skills and future-focused thinking.
Our experienced professionals are ready to share their knowledge and expertise with you!
Your springboard to success: Capgemini Academy
- Part of one of the largest, most innovative IT service providers in the world.
- A large range of training course offerings: available both fully online and in the classroom.
- Most training courses include certification and exams.
- Trainers with passion, didactic skills and practical experience.
- Average rating by course participants: 8.8
Do you have any questions about the role of the data architect/big data architect, or about which training fits best for you? Please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be glad to share thoughts with you – also if you’re looking for custom courses for yourself or for your team.