Difference between AWS TAM and AM and SA

Question

Hi guys,

I see AWS has many different roles such as TAM (Technical Account Manager), AM (Account Manager), and SA (Solutions Architect). I am confused about the difference between TAM and these two other roles since I read the definition of TAM and I see that their responsibility is quite similar to SA and AM.

Could you please help me explain the difference between these positions?

Thanks

Steven

Accepted Answer

Hi,

The official definition of TAM is here: https://aws.amazon.com/premiumsupport/plans/enterprise/

```
A Technical Account Manager (TAM) provides consultative architectural and operational guidance
 delivered in the context of your applications and use-cases to help you achieve the greatest value 
from AWS. The TAM will work with you to provide tailored engagements including strategic Business 
Reviews, Security Improvement Programs, guided Well-Architected reviews, Cost Optimization workshops, 
and a range of proactive services. TAMs throughout your journey will consult on architecture, governance, 
security, and operations, including cost management and other pillars of building on AWS. They will also 
cover progress made towards your desired outcomes, and to validate the planned outcomes in subsequent 
periods of performance.
```

Best,

Didier

Answer

Hi Steven,

I like to think of the TAM role as a Strategic Partner for the customers and that encompasses cost optimizations, proactive engagements such as Well Architected Review, IEM, etc.   This also includes reviews of their account to help them with security, operational readiness, best practice etc as well as regular cadences to discuss projects, cases, guidance etc.  The SA role is usually in helping them architect new workflows and provide technical guidance on potential workflows and/or proof of concepts.  TAM and SA lines tend to cross occasionally depending on expertise and time available.  The AM's role is more about maintaining customer relationships, new business and any contractual changes that might be occurring.  They tend to be focused on growth of the customers but also act as the point of contact for the C-suite initially once a customer is on Enterprise Support.

Difference between AWS TAM and AM and SA

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