How Can The TOGAF® Standard Help In Extending The EA

Introduction

The TOGAF® standard is an EA framework for developing the Enterprise Architecture using different strategies. The Open Group Consortium members originally developed it, and it used to have technical architectures, though the domains have already been introduced. It is now a vital approach for developing the necessary strategies for the EA development.

Components of the TOGAF® Standard

The ADM

The most common component of the TOGAF® standard is the Architecture Development Method (ADM), which is the approach used to organize specified tailoring and implementation of the Enterprise Architecture.

The Enterprise Continuum

The TOGAF® Enterprise Continuum is a collection of resources that act as components and elements of the implementation and tailoring of the Enterprise Architecture. These resources pooled are solutions patterns, models, and specific assets. The Enterprise Continuum is equivalent to a reference source for the Enterprise Architecture stakeholders and specialists.

In addition to the Enterprise Continuum and ADM, the TOGAF® standard provides additional references and resources related to the methods, solutions and techniques necessary for planning and initiating the EA.

Application of the TOGAF® Standard and Other Methodologies

The TOGAF® standard should be integrated with a different methodology in the modern business environment.

The TOGAF® Standard With the Enterprise Unified Process

The EUP is an approach introduced to help extend the development of EA. It also ushered in new methodologies, including the Enterprise Architecture discipline. When EUP is combined with the TOGAF® standard, it helps to cover a wider approach to the RUP in an enterprise. The EUP and the TOGAF® standard methods are different, but they all help implement the Enterprise Architecture.

The TOGAF® Standard With the Rational Unified Process

Even though the TOGAF® standard does not share a standard scope with the RUP, the integration will help create a better EA. The major difference between the two approaches is that RUP focuses on the technology architecture, while the TOGAF® standard focuses on the business architecture.

With the RUP, an organization can collect the business prerequisites, which help design and deploy a software-based system. On the other hand, the TOGAF® standard values the IT Service management since it helps an organization discover its vision.

The implementation process of the TOGAF® standard intersects with the RUP to achieve the EA development. The two intersect when blueprints of architecture, the application model, a top-quality implementation plan, and business architecture are transferred to the execution team. It will only be considered a complete handover if both sides agree on the scope of implementation.

The Enterprise Architecture Scope

The Enterprise Architecture activities normally commence before the commencement of project-driven solutions. The EA will then continue throughout the entire enterprise lifespan. Since it is a continuous process, the EA development has one entry point that concurs with the invention of a practice. The entry point also concurs with several process involvements dispersed throughout the enterprise architecture's timeline.

Some EA frameworks introduce iterations and cycles that should accompany the key stages in an organization's business development. In these frameworks, a cycle will entail several stages that feed into the EA activities. This mostly happens in the first stage of the cycle.

Possible Hurdles of the TOGAF® Implementation

This approach is a framework, not necessarily an end-to-end approach. For that, an organization needs specific tailoring. The customization ignores the business model knowledge and steady methodological knowledge. Given its complexity, using the new version of the TOGAF® standard could be challenging.

It could also be difficult to find a buy-in from a stakeholder that will let you use the TOGAF® standard. Though the Framework received many enhancements, it is less comprehensive than other approaches. This is mostly in technology and business connections. For instance, the Framework does not include approaches such as the rational Method Composer. It also does not have a detailed publication library.

So Will It Help in the Enterprise Architecture?

An organization needs to decide whether it will be implemented as enterprise architecture. The organization should resolve if it will rely on the TOGAF® standard to implement the EA. The Framework is the next big tool for developing and implementing the Enterprise Architecture. Typically, organizations that use the methodologies of the solution lifecycle successfully and uniformly will have better progress in developing the EA. The Enterprise Architecture must not be forced into an organization by simply making judgments. The need for the EA should come naturally from comprehending the existing complexities that enclose business management. The business structure must also move along with the EA to fit naturally.

The TOGAF® standard is a great tool for implementing the Enterprise Architecture and the IT service management. However, it is always advised to give the approach a trial. Also, the organization must fully understand the TOGAF® standard and its business infrastructure.

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Disclaimer: "The TOGAF® standard is a registered trademark of The Open Group."