Business Architecture Framework
Common Questions on Business Architecture Framework
In this article we simplify some of the frequently asked questions surrounding Business Architecture, Enterprise Architecture and the frameworks and methodologies used to define and structure both architectures.
What is Business Architecture?
Business Architecture defines the business strategy, governance, organisation and key business processes. People who develop and maintain business architecture are known as business architects. Business Architecture primarily focuses on the business motivations, business operations and business analysis frameworks and related networks that link these aspects of the enterprise together.
What is a Business Architecture Framework?
A Business Architecture Framework is a framework for structuring and understanding business, information, and technology patterns and how they work together to achieve strategic and tactical goals.
The goal of a Business Architecture Framework is to;
- Connect strategy with operations and projects in strong meaningful ways
- Create and understand business patterns, from chaos to order
- Have common coherent perspective; preventing fragmentation
What is Enterprise Architecture?
An enterprise architecture (EA) is a conceptual blueprint that defines the structure and operation of an organisation. The intent of enterprise architecture is to determine how an organisation can most effectively achieve its current and future objectives.
What are Enterprise Architecture Frameworks and Methodologies?
Before we can really discuss Enterprise Architectural frameworks and methodologies, we need to understand the difference between a framework and a methodology.
A framework is a static model or structure which leaves room for other practices and tools to be included but provides much of the process required.
A methodology is a set of principles, tools and practices which can be used to guide processes to achieve a particular goal.
When looking at Enterprise Architecture Frameworks and Methodologies, it is important to note that no framework or methodology is complete as each has its advantages and disadvantages.
There are several Enterprise Architecture Frameworks and Methodologies available. It is important for an architect to select the appropriate framework and apply the suitable methodology to accomplish their engagements successfully for the various products, services and internal organizations they serve.
The most common Enterprise Architecture Framework is The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF). TOGAF is a set of models and tools for developing a broad range of IT architectures. Rather than prescribing a specific set of enterprise architecture deliverables or views, TOGAF is designed to be used with whichever deliverables are considered most appropriate for a given solution. TOGAF describes an example taxonomy of the views an architect might consider, providing guidelines for making that choice.
When looking at Enterprise Architecture Methodologies, different methodologies achieve different goals so it is vital to select a methodology that is aligned to your specific goals. A key to the TOGAF framework remains a reliable, practical method – the TOGAF Architecture Development Method (ADM). The TOGAF ADM describes a method for developing and managing the lifecycle of an enterprise architecture, and forms the core of TOGAF. It integrates elements of TOGAF described in this document as well as other available architectural assets, to meet the business and IT needs of an organisation.
What is the difference between Business Architecture and Enterprise Architecture?
Enterprise Architecture is a much broader discipline than the sum of Business Architecture. Enterprise Architecture is comprised of Business Architecture, IT Architecture, Value Architecture, Process Architecture and more.
While the above is a brief, simplified outline of Business Architecture, Enterprise Architecture and the Frameworks and Methodologies used, we encourage you to contact us via the below form with any additional questions or comments you may have.
Alternatively click to find out more on our Applied Business Architecture and TOGAF training courses.
