Key takeaways
- A correct diagram alone does not govern a transformation.
- A framework can incorporate existing practices.
- Distinguish structure, the conduct of work, and representation.
Complementary functions
An architecture framework provides structure for organizing practice, descriptions, and decisions. TOGAF includes a development method, the ADM, content concepts, and practices for establishing an architecture capability. A method explains how to undertake the work; it should not be confused with a graphical notation.
Zachman provides a classification of descriptions through different questions and perspectives. ArchiMate is a modeling language for representing elements and their relationships with shared semantics. Using a language does not, by itself, determine activity sequencing or the governance mechanisms that apply to the work.
Assembling a suitable practice
An organization can combine a method, a classification, and a language while maintaining explicit mappings between their concepts. TOGAF supports tailoring and the reuse of existing assets. The objective is shared terminology, consistent decisions, and useful descriptions, rather than adoption of every available tool.
- Choose a method to guide the work.
- Choose views and models according to stakeholder concerns.
- Use notation understood by the intended readers.
TERMS TO KNOW
The terms, in context.
- Architecture framework
- Structure of concepts and practices for developing and using an architecture.
- Modeling language
- Vocabulary and representation rules for elements and their relationships.