Systems Engineer
A systems engineer is a mastermind, who takes a cross-functional approach to design, implement and manage complex system(s) throughout its entire life cycle.
A system engineer understands how different components work together to achieve specific business goals and integrate electrical, technology and computer systems to create solutions that satisfy business needs.
Systems Architect
A systems architect analyzes clients business needs, then develops architectural solutions to ensure everything aligns with the organization’s goals while making sure all systems function efficiently, securely and meet compliance objectives.
The Differences
A systems architect mainly focuses on the design/blueprint of a system and works with the client to determine platforms, hardware and software needs and compliance.
A systems engineer is responsible for the implementation, configuration and maintenance of the systems, ensuring they function as intended.
A systems architect focuses more on what and why, whereas a systems engineer focuses on the how and when it can be done.
What is a Systems Architect? Engineer?
What is the Difference?
The staff at ITC are system engineers and architects, which is why Doug says, “When you work with us, you work with an expert every time.”
What does a Systems Engineer do?
1. Design and develop a system
a. Identify and define the needs and functionality of system = requirements analysis
b. Design overall structure and system components = system architecture
c. Ensure all parts of the system work seamlessly together = component integration
2. Optimize and improve a system
a. Evaluate a systems performance and identify needs/improvements = performance analysis
b. Identify and mitigate risks throughout the system = risk management
c. Diagnose and resolve issues during system operations = problem solving
3. Manage and support system and lifecycle
a. Ensure system is functional and updated = maintenance and updates
b. Monitor a system’s performance and test reliability regularly = monitoring and testing
c. Maintain detailed records of a system design, operation and maintenance = documentation
What does a Systems Architect Do?
1. Design architecture solutions that encompass hardware, software, networking and data storage, to meet the technical and business requirements of an organization
2. Work closely with a client to understand system requirements, user expectations, technical constraints and federal compliance
3. Evaluate technology options and make recommendations based on a businesses needs and budget, as well as assess suitability of hardware and software to determine platform, framework and tools
4. Design architecture solutions to enable seamless communication and data exchange between different systems, applications, platforms, and measure compatibility with existing infrastructures
5. Assess a systems efficiency, reliability, scalability, responsiveness, optimization, compliance and performance
6. Design systems with a focus on security and compliance
7. Document concepts, designs, decisions and recommendations, then communicate to clients, educate/train internal IT staff, facilitate/align collaborations between systems, staff and compliance agencies
