Think strategically, develop tactically - How to become a good Architect

• Gain the respect from the developers actually implementing solutions. You should be able to jump in and get your hands dirty. Also you need to have a good working relationship with system or business analysts.

• Prove yourself on successful projects. Word travels fast when your design is good.

• Develop diplomacy skills. Lots of managers feel that architectural decisions from somebody else make them look technically weak. You need to find a way to sell the best idea, and cut through red-tape.

• Think big picture, think strategically, think abstractly. The challenge of a good architect is to be tactically and strategically proficient. Developers and managers often fall to either side.

• Read, read, read.