What does a a Lead Architect do? We interviewed Erik Gustafsson to find our more.
After 16 months in the start-up business, we decided to bring onboard a Lead Architect - Erik Gustafsson! We all know what an architect does but add in the context of software development and suddenly the crystal-clear picture is more of a mental brain fog spreading across the horizon. Even to the lead Architect himself, in fact when we asked for this interview during his first week at HaleyTek he replied that he would have to get back to us when he has figures it out, gutsy and humble maneuver. Already embodying some of that HaleyTek spirit, Bravo Erik!
Before the full picture of what a lead Architect actually does comes a quick glance at his background. With a master’s in computer science from Chalmers University of Technology, over 27 years of experience in software development within the global automotive industry, Erik is also an entrepreneur and founder of companies that have been world leaders in niche areas.
“Central has been to create value for the automotive industry with relevant and technically sharp solutions. Over the years, I have learned the unique conditions under which the automotive industry lives. They manufacture complex products that are produced in large volumes in a constantly changing world, with different requirements and conditions. This means that it is important to quickly respond to new and changing needs and to counter technological shifts that often have a major impact on the product. At the same time, it is crucial to maintain flexibility and a stable course in your own product development. ”
Erik has always worked closely with the development team and through his long experience in programming is able to participate in technical discussions and decisions while bringing a unique perspective to our already skilled and eminent teach leads and product owners.
To clear up the mental fog for us, Erik can you please describe what a Lead Architect does (to someone outside the industry).
A Lead Architect is responsible for inspiring new software innovations. The architect forms the foundation for future software development and provides technical guidance to various development teams. The architect also oversees the development, implementation and maintenance of the software and is responsible for managing and evaluating vendors, partners and new technologies. In addition, the architect is responsible for guiding the overall technical development and ensuring that the product meets a business need. It is important to monitor the outside world, trends and follow the technical development in the field.
We would like for you to be able to add the title Tech Profet to your list of skills, go ahead and tell us what the future will look like for our industry.
“The traditional division between manufacturers and suppliers is about to change as software forms an increasingly large part of the car’s unique features and therefore more is done in-house. In the past, large parts have come from suppliers. At the same time, this means a big change for their organization, which is traditionally not used to developing software on this scale. It is also a big challenge to create long-term solutions that do not imply too much maintenance. As a lot happens in this area, it is important for the automotive industry to be fast and responsive in order not to get stuck in an outdated technology and thus a worse customer experience. I think that the platform HaleyTek is developing can be very interesting to use for several car manufacturers. Partly to reduce costs, but also to ensure that they are perceived as modern and innovative. HaleyTek can significantly reduce the lead time it takes to develop a flexible and modern infotainment system based on the latest technologies, such as Google Automotive Services (GAS). ”
HaleyTek is eager for the journey ahead and thrilled to have Erik leading the way to a solid foundation for our products, in alignment with the future of tomorrows technologies that will make our customers successful in delivering THE epitome of modern and innovative cars, with an infotainment system to match.