Lead Architect Vs. Chief Architect

Although a lead architect and a chief architect may seem like they are closely related within the architectural field, they are not closely related at all. Chief architects deal with IT management within a company, while the lead architect is responsible for building design. However, both professions deal with managing projects and that means they lead others through delegating tasks. Chief architects needs to understand software programs and technology so they can build LANs, WANs, and intranets for a company. Lead architects will report an estimation of costs, form a building design plan, and give structure specifications.

Lead Architect

Lead architects have a variety of job responsibilities, and they are not always confined to the day-to-day office. These professionals will meet with clients and gather information on what the client wants to accomplish in the project. Also they will often site search for where a building or structure should go within an area, which is called a 'site survey.' Lead architects will use procedural designs to complete a step-by-step plan in how the project will be conducted. This is to include understanding any weight and height requirements. Furthermore, lead architects must understand how any source such as water, gas, or electric needed for a project is going to get to the site. If they are not designing a structure, but making adjustments to one, they will still conduct a site survey. The process will be slightly different in these situations and that will depend on what they are adjusting or adding to a structure. Once a structure or project is complete, it is the responsibility of the lead architect to makes sure the project is evaluated once again for any problems, and if problems are found they are to form a design plan to resolve the issue.

Job Responsibilities:

• Communicates with clients to provide them with information on designs
• Uses calculations to make informed decisions on design ideas
• Writes procedural design plans and provide architectural design plans
• Oversees a design plan from start to finish
• Uses software programs to build designs
• Markets and networks to find new clients

Chief Architect

A chief architect has many different roles with their day-to-day job responsibilities. They use their skills to build the technological groundwork for a company. Chief architects will evaluate the technological needs of employees and client users to inform the company on software and program purchases. They do this by having a thorough understanding of a company's business plan. Chief architects need to be knowledgeable in business and in IT because they will be required to participate on both sides of this spectrum. These professionals will show employees how to use software programs to their full potential. Furthermore, chief architects can sometimes find themselves in a meeting with higher management when there is a change or issue with the technology the company has been using previously.

Job Responsibilities:

• Understands the newest technology available
• Assists employees at all level in technology use and information
• Develops software
• Troubleshoots software problems
• Understands users' needs in technology
• Communicates with upper management