Enterprise Architecture

What is Enterprise Architecture?

Enterprise Architecture is a Governance Model to integrate

1. Business Architecture

2. Data Architecture

3. Application Architecture

And

4. Technology Architecture

The Governance Model produces better return on existing investment, reduced risk for future investment and also enables the organization for faster, simpler and inexpensive procurement.

Business Architecture

Business Architecture is a disciplined approach to direct the Business Strategy. It’s a bridge between the functional requirements and the business functionality of the enterprise.

Data Architecture

Data architecture is composed of models, policies, rules or standards that govern which data is collected, and how it is stored, arranged, integrated, and put to use in data systems and in organization.

It also describes how data is processed, stored, and utilized in an information system through conceptual, logical and physical architecture documents.

Application Architecture

Application architecture describes the structure and behavior of applications used in a business, focused on how they interact with each other and with users. It helps to create the composite architecture is scalable, reliable, available and manageable.

In application portfolio management, the applications are usually mapped to business functions and to application.

Technology Architecture

The software and hardware capabilities that are required to support the deployment of business, data and application services. This includes IT Infrastructure, Middleware, Networks and Security.

Why do I need Enterprise Architecture?

Effective management and discipline of information through IT is a key factor to business success. An Enterprise Architecture addresses this need, by providing a strategy to bridge the IT system and constantly changing needs of business.

The advantages that result from a good enterprise architecture can bring important business benefits, including

A more efficient IT Operation

• Lower software development, support and maintenance costs
• Increased portability of applications
• Improved system and network management
• Easier upgrade of system and application components

Better return on existing investment

• Reduced complexity of IT Infrastructure
• Maximum return on investment in existing IT Infrastructure

Faster, simpler and inexpensive procurement

• Buying decisions are simpler
• Procurement process is faster

Do you know certified Enterprise Architects earns $10k – 15k more per year? Contact me to become a certified Enterprise Architect.

References

TOGAF 9 Foundation Study Guide by Rachel Harrison

Other Online Resources