How to Become a BI Architect
In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, some businesses get left behind using dated systems and strategies. But others rise to the challenge by leveraging technological advances that inform their decision-making and improve their outcomes. They do this through business intelligence (BI), the process of using information to efficiently gather and analyze data. This process helps companies understand the data and use what they find to make better decisions for their organization, redefining their digital transformation strategy.
Leaders who already manage teams, companies, and systems can benefit from developing their business intelligence skill set. Becoming an expert in BI develops critical leadership skills, incorporates applied research into daily leadership practices, and strengthens an organization's data-driven strategy.
If you want to further your leadership by learning about business intelligence and data analysis, you may want to become a BI architect.
What is a BI Architect?
BI architects develop and manage the business intelligence systems within a company. They’re at the helm of building data warehouses and structuring data to be able to discover meaningful insights that improve company outcomes across the board, from project management to customer experience to operational efficiency. They’re skilled in turning big data into manageable, interpretable facts and figures.
Because BI can improve companies in a vast array of ways, BI architects fit seamlessly into a larger team. They work with data analysts, data scientists, and data engineers to develop a comprehensive, efficient data strategy for an organization.
Who Should Work as a BI Architect?
Many business and information technology professionals can pursue a career as a BI architect. Generally, BI Architects already possess foundational knowledge and experience in fields like computer science, data science, or informatics. They may have spent the early years of their career in data warehousing or analytics after earning an MBA. Now, they’re eager to step into a leadership role by continuing their experience and education.
Exploring the Role of the BI Architect
What exactly does a business intelligence architect do? The scope of their work is wide, but it typically includes mastery of skills such as data warehousing, problem-solving, information technology, and data modeling.
Data Warehousing
A data warehouse is a system designed to store large amounts of data. BI architects are responsible for designing and maintaining these warehouses, creating helpful reports that will inform a company’s strategies and decisions.
Problem Solving
No matter how skilled BI architects are, they will undoubtedly encounter problems in their line of work. Leading BI architects have developed the skills to help them work quickly and think clearly when things don’t go as planned, whether due to failed technology, user error, or team conflicts.
Information Technology
An overarching understanding of IT helps business intelligence architects know which tools to use in which situations. They will use their training to program databases, code, manage and analyze data, and develop reports that showcase their findings clearly.
Data Modeling
Data modeling transforms a set of data into a visual model, allowing others within the company to see and understand complex data sets. This is a helpful tool as BI architects collaborate with company leadership and non-technical teams within an organization.
BI architects also develop soft skills like organization, time management, and teamwork. Because they’re typically working on multiple projects at once, they must know how to manage their own work, lead a team with clear communication and objectives, and keep data outcomes organized and up to date.
Business intelligence architects can enjoy competitive compensation and strong job security. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for database administrators and analysts is just over $123,000, and specialized knowledge and skills can push compensation even higher. The job outlook is promising, with projected growth of 9% by 2033, which is much higher than the national average for all jobs at just 4%.
How to Become a BI Architect
To become a BI architect, you’ll have to develop strong technical skills in information technology and data analytics. Most companies expect business intelligence leaders to have a firm grasp on and proven expertise in data warehousing, data visualization, and data modeling.
BI architects typically have already completed multiple degrees, including a bachelor’s degree in computer science, data analytics, information technology, or a related field. Those who aspire to senior roles also earn an MBA with a technological emphasis.
If you’re looking to become a top leader in the field of business intelligence, consider adding a Doctorate of Business Administration in Business Intelligence to your resume. This terminal degree is the highest level of education available to technology leaders, and unlike a Ph.D, a DBA will help you transfer your theoretical knowledge to the real world of business.
Become a BI Leader Fully Online
Earning a Doctorate of Business Administration in Business Intelligence at Marymount University Online will help you transform your career without stepping away from it to become a full-time residential student. This fully online degree is perfect for working professionals with managerial experience who want to not only identify, but fully seize data-driven opportunities to inform decisions companies make today and improve outcomes for the future.
At Marymount University Online, you’ll find an interdisciplinary approach within The College of Business, Innovation, Leadership, and Technology (BILT). This unique learning opportunity provides a robust, multifaceted perspective for business intelligence leaders who want to continue innovating for good.
MUO’s applied approach to the doctoral dissertation ensures that your work aligns with your current interests or professional aspirations, combining BILT coursework with research to help you build, write, and complete your dissertation as you earn your degree – starting during your first semester!
When you enroll in this nationally esteemed College of Distinction in Business and Education, you’ll find opportunities to build your network by connecting with other experienced leaders, faculty, and alumni from across the country — currently spanning 38 states. With mentor and faculty support, you’ll enhance your skills in change management, strategic thinking, and ethical decision-making, all of which will help you stand out as a leader in today’s digital landscape.
Become a BI expert with a DBA in BI from Marymount University Online.