Solutions Architect: Networking

PURPOSE:

Responsible for the needs analysis of customer requirements, pre sales, solution crafting, solutions architecture, solution presentation and pricing of the proposed solutions.

Responsible for technology trend analysis and driving solutions through innovation and fit for purpose solutions.

Responsible for the analysis of small solutions or part of a team on larger solutions. Responsible for the systematic and methodical investigation, analysis and documentation of all or part of Networking solutions, including LAN, SDN, WAN, SDWAN, WAN and Wi-Fi. Identifies and examines needs and determines timely and effective solutions. Documents the underlying architecture and conducts feasibility studies, business cases, risk assessments, writes proposals and creates functional requirements for new solutions and major changes to existing systems made possible by information and communication technology.

FORMAL EDUCATION:

Grade 12/ (NQF4)

Relevant Qualification in Engineering, Informatics, Information Management (NQF 5) Advantageous

EXPERIENCE:

• > 3 years' experience in crafting solutions in the ICT industry for the relevant asset/ value proposition
• > 7 years' experience in IT

TECHNICAL / LEGAL CERTIFICATION

• HCPA/HCPP or CCDA/CCDP or other OEM or Technology specific certification (where applicable)
• CCIE / HCIE (advantageous)

• Must have valid drivers license and reliable vehicle

RESPONSIBILITIES: and KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

Financial Perspective

• Costing

After crafting the solution, compile work breakdown structure (WBS) and bill of materials, estimating the effort and request quotes (list costs) for the components

Customer Perspective

• Need analysis and solution crafting

Engage with the customer around problems, completing analysis of systems, doing a site visit, completevisibility study, requirement formulation and design solutions, etc.

Responsible for the installation, configuration and customization of the assigned solution products for customer demonstrations and proof of concept.

Assist with the technical specifications for hardware requirements, as and when requested.

• Requirement management

Work with sponsors, customers and users to identify functional and non-functional requirements.

• Stakeholder management
• Establish and maintain interfaces with stakeholders. Interface with customers, internal and external service providers and OEMs. Mediate opposing architectural viewpoints and negotiate an equitable solution to ensure a successful outcome.

Internal Perspective

• Process compliance and improvement

Study and adherence to the mapped processes published for allocated area and create or improve allocated processes.

• Technology foresight and scenario planning

Create and maintain technology strategies, business cases and investment plans

Articulate and translate strategic requirements into potential value propositions, technology strategies, business cases and investment plans

Facilitate the incubation, the development of technical reference models and the transition thereof into service assets

• Develop and validate useful models

Develop well formulated models, guiding what should be done within or outside the organisation. De