I think the difference between a software architect and a developer is a curiosity about what is happening outside the bounds of the code you write.
I've know good developers who write excellent code, great tests, etc. but that struggle to figure out how their code is built, packaged, and run in various environments.
Likewise, they don't really understand databases, load balancers, and the other surrounding pieces.
The things a good architect will care about also look very boring from the outside (ht @skamille). Solid CI pipeline? Automated, zero downtime deployments? Database tuning? 🥱
But these are the things that will determine if your app is stable or not!
@iamnoah no one likes doing the unsexy but critical work b/c it doesnt get them the praise/recognition :(
I think what is amazing to me is how well a developer can do without the bigger picture. It's kind of amazing that you can just write code and that it does what it says on the tin is usually good enough!
Sometimes this will cost you, but a good architect may save you!