Architecture Framework
Provide the overarching framework of standards, templates, and specifications for organizing and presenting a description of the business and technical architectures.
Improvement Planning
Practices-Outcomes-Metrics (POM)
Representative POMs are described for Architecture Framework at each level of maturity.
- 1Initial
- Practice
- The design and implementation of the Architecture artefacts happens within the context of individual projects.
- Outcome
- Time is saved through some re-use within specific projects.
- Metric
- No metrics at this level.
- 2Basic
- Practice
- Define the Architecture Frameworks for use in specific IT areas, ensure architects reference and use the frameworks. Architecture artefacts in those areas generally reflect the architecture framework & templates.
- Outcome
- A level of consistency in architecture artefacts is observed and the reuse of technologies is visible in delivered architectures. Consistent common language is developing amongst the architects.
- Metric
- % of project portfolio adhering to architecture framework and processes. Ratio of adherence to Standards vs. Exceptions.
- 3Intermediate
- Practice
- Adopt and use a recognized industry framework to underpin the organizations EA framework and encompass a comprehensive set of architecture domains (e.g. business, data, application, technology). Ensure that the architecture artefacts consistently reflect architecture framework templates. Ensure that architects reference and contribute to the continual development of the architecture framework.
- Outcome
- Measurable consistency in architecture artefacts is observed and the reuse of technologies is common in delivered architectures. Consistent common language is used between architects.
- Metric
- # of standards defined # of exceptions raised against Standards
- 4Advanced
- Practice
- Extend the Architecture framework to include the definition of patterns for common architectures. Define process model templates, using the framework for some business areas. Ensure training on the Architecture Framework is mandatory for all new hires. Conduct regular communications (quarterly, bi-annually) to the architecture community on the Architecture Framework.
- Outcome
- Measurable consistency in architecture artefacts is observed across the organization and the reuse of technologies is consistent in delivered architectures. Emergence of Enterprise Activity Models is seen.
- Metric
- % of project portfolio with one or more exception to architecture standards % of standards with overdue lifecycle states % of roadmap defined for each business process or application % of projects aligned to roadmap (adoption)
- 5Optimized
- Practice
- Extend the Architecture framework to include the definition of patterns for complex cross functional architectures. Define within the framework, process model templates for all key business areas. Certify all project artefacts to comply with the architecture framework. Define roles and accountabilities that specifically support the continued development of the architecture framework. Communicate and publish regularly (e.g. quarterly, bi-annually) to the broad architecture community about the Architecture Framework.
- Outcome
- Measurable consistency in architectures across the company. Consistent reuse appears in delivered architectures. Consistent common language between architects. Documented dictionary of architecture definitions. Globally Agreed Enterprise Activity Model exists.
- Metric
- % of architecture artefacts failing certification against the architecture framework % of project portfolio defined as architecturally significant % of architecturally significant project without a named architect assigned % of projects aligned to roadmap (adoption)