The Solution Architect
Architecture knowledge with a public service lens
A growing resource for Solution Architects working in or interested in UK government digital delivery. Whether you're in government, considering it, or just curious about how architecture works in public service — you're welcome here.
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Structured learning, practical resources, and honest perspectives on solution architecture in government.
Architect's Library
A growing library of practical guides for Solution Architects in UK government — from the fundamentals of the role to patterns, governance, and decision-making.
Start learningInfographics
Visual guides to architecture concepts, project phases, cloud services, and frameworks. Designed to be saved, shared, and referenced.
View galleryGovernment Lifecycle
Discovery, Alpha, Beta, Live, Retirement — understand each phase and what architecture looks like at every stage of delivery.
Explore phasesAI Governance
Practical guidance on AI guardrails in government. What frameworks exist, why they matter, and how to apply them responsibly.
Read moreCloud Fundamentals
Key cloud concepts for architects, starting with AWS. Understand the services, patterns, and decisions that matter most.
Explore cloudArchitecture Artifacts
A reference guide to the documents, diagrams, and deliverables that Solution Architects produce across the delivery lifecycle.
View artifactsLatest Infographics
Visual architecture knowledge — designed to be saved and shared.
What a Solution Architect Actually Does
Architect's LibraryDiscovery Phase Overview
LifecycleAWS Core Services for Architects
AWSHow Architects Think Differently
Architect's LibraryLatest Thinking
Perspectives on architecture, delivery, and working in public service technology.
Why Architecture Decisions Are Not Technical Problems
The biggest mistake new architects make is treating every decision as a technical one. Most architecture decisions are actually about people, politics, and priorities.
The Architecture Role Nobody Prepared You For
When you move from development into architecture, nobody tells you that half your job is now about influence, not implementation.
Architecture in Discovery: Less Is More
Discovery isn't the time for solution design. It's the time for understanding. Here's what architects should actually be doing in discovery.