“Hands-on” Architect is like a Brick Layer who is sometimes an Architect
Such a creature can not exist on any serious building project.
So, why is it seen so often on software projects? Business leadership is under pressure from investors, regulators, and competition in general. Getting tired, scared, and confused in that process. If I may offer some advice, after seeing many, I have committed the same mistake.
Do not get confused. Stay competitive. Hire an Architect.
Ensure that you give your Architect a well-defined role and let them define the technological roadmap for your business. Let the Architect ask the difficult questions before answering them.
Good Architect will describe the complex solutions, but as you are able to understand them: from your point of view.
