Solutions Architect Review

The role varies on a day to day basis, depending on the project you are on. So far, I have been involved in a product selection project for a client, a migration project for another client and an innovative solution project for a small team within Capgemini. I’ve been asked to hold and take part in meetings, brainstorm ideas to create solutions, and experienced every end of the spectrum within a project whether that’s a bit of Project Management activities, Business Analyst activities or Solutions Architect activities.

I have learnt many new skills, as this was my first “corporate” role after graduating. I worked in smaller companies previously to gain experience however this is my first “big job” and my skills have been widened since joining. I’ve learnt how to talk to different grades of people, how to negotiate, explaining difficult concepts in very basic form for those with less technical know-how. I’ve been able to improve massively on my soft skills but also gained a ton of knowledge from a technical aspect, learning all sorts in AWS, Azure etc.

The programme is enjoyable as it has allowed me to be able to fast track and understand Enterprise Architecture in a simple yet knowledgeable form. The lecturers explain very well and have a great understanding of all concepts and theories involved in EA. The workshops have been great as they’ve allowed a group of us to have conversations between each other, especially when attending the sessions virtually. Lastly, the courseworks have been great fun as they’ve allowed us to apply our knowledge.

The programme is organised well. There is a weekly “workshop” (a seminar) whereby the tutors host a session to teach us the weekly topics, with breakout rooms to allow us to discuss between each other. As always, there can be improvements made around the workshops as many university students are typically accustomed to attending a lecture and having the seminar as optional. It may be good to have that option available here especially when work projects take priority sometimes.

Capgemini are very very supportive and amazing in giving us the time to be able to spend on the programme. They’ve allowed us to be able to spend as much time as we need on our assignments. There are specific people in place to provide us support, or speak to the university or the apprenticeship provider when needed.

QA is the training provider and they are fairly good. There are ACE Sessions held for extra support such as writing, references, etc. There are also drop-in sessions held by the tutors to provide support for the assignments. Any questions to be asked can be asked within the sessions. We are also able to email the tutors for any support.

The programme has allowed me to be able to gain an understanding into an industry and role I’ve had no experience in previously. The programme has provided beginner level knowledge to then expanding on the knowledge on how Enterprise Architecture works. From a basic level to advanced level. Carrying out the coursework has also helped improve the knowledge.

As the course is held virtually, there are no outside extra curricular activities to get involved in. It may be difficult to set something like this up due to the nature of the course delivery. All the workshops are held virtually, courseworks, ACE sessions, tutor sessions etc. Would be nice to have it.

Yes

Best company to work for. As a graduate with no prior experience in a new role, and a large corporation - they’ve been great and supportive from the very first minute. Any time there is an issue, it is resolved very quickly. To be able to have an opportunity to be involved in such a role at an early stages of my career is an opportunity to be grateful for, forever.

Apply apply apply. Definitely apply. Learn about the company, learn about the role and do your best in the application process. The company is great at providing flexibility and well-being, allowing support whenever needed. People are friendly, and answer any questions whenever needed. Great company to work for, for graduates or experienced careers.