Victor Brown

In a recent LinkedIn discussion, I offered the following definition of Enterprise Architecture (EA)

EA is the logical framework that links and aligns business strategy and organizational structures, processes, information, and technologies.

What I find fascinating is that EA as a business function whose intent and benefits seem so obvious to me (based on many years of experience and empirical evidence) is apparently so difficult to define!  In that same LinkedIn discussion hundreds of alternative definitions were offered with an amazing range. In many cases you wouldn’t even think that people were defining the same thing.

One thing is obvious. The practice of Enterprise Architecture is maturing, along with the recognition that its scope and its contribution to the business goes far beyond technology. Its success as an integrated business function requires a well-defined governance framework.

Based on my experience working with numerous clients to help create their EA practices, I’ve found that a sustainable framework for EA Governance is characterized by certain key criteria and deliverables.  On my blog Strategic IT Architecture, I’ve posted part one of a two-part series about Governance. In part one, I cover foundational aspects of EA governance, Capability Assessment, Architecture Principles, and Architecture Vision.  In part two, I’ll cover key deliverables that guide realization of a robust EA Governance.

If the topic is of interest, take a look and let me know what you think.