Introduction
Embark on a compelling exploration of The Open Group Architecture Framework’s (TOGAF) Architecture Development Method (ADM), where building blocks play a pivotal role in crafting resilient and effective enterprise architectures. This guide unveils the significance of building blocks as they traverse seamlessly across each development phase, shaping the foundation of strategic and future-proofed organizations.
Building Block in TOGAF ADM Development Phases
In TOGAF (The Open Group Architecture Framework), a building block is a modular unit of functionality in an enterprise architecture. It represents a self-contained and cohesive package of functionality that can be combined with other building blocks to create more complex architectures.
The Architecture Development Method (ADM) in TOGAF consists of various phases, and building blocks play a crucial role in these phases. The flow of building blocks across ADM can be described as follows:
Preliminary Phase:
- Identification of organizational requirements and objectives.
- Preliminary building blocks might include high-level business goals and strategic objectives.
Phase A – Architecture Vision:
- Creation of an Architecture Vision.
- Building blocks might include high-level conceptual building blocks representing key elements of the vision.
Phase B – Business Architecture:
- Development of the Business Architecture.
- Building blocks may include business processes, organizational units, and information flows.
Phase C – Information Systems Architectures:
- Development of Information Systems Architectures.
- Building blocks could include data models, application systems, and interfaces.
Phase D – Technology Architecture:
- Development of the Technology Architecture.
- Building blocks might include technology components, platforms, and networks.
Phase E – Opportunities and Solutions:
- Identification of opportunities for reusing existing building blocks and creating new ones.
- Building blocks are refined and adapted to address specific solution requirements.
Phase F – Migration Planning:
Development of a detailed Migration Plan.
Building blocks are organized and sequenced to form the migration strategy.
Phase G – Implementation Governance:
- Implementation of the architecture and governance activities.
- Building blocks are monitored and controlled to ensure alignment with the architecture.
Phase H – Architecture Change Management:
- Management of changes to the architecture.
- Building blocks are updated and modified in response to changes in the enterprise.
Phase I – Requirements Management:
- Management of architecture requirements.
- Building blocks are refined based on evolving requirements.
Throughout these phases, building blocks evolve, and their relationships and dependencies are managed. For example, a building block representing a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system in the Business Architecture phase may evolve into a set of specific software applications and databases in the Information Systems Architectures and Technology Architecture phases.
In summary, building blocks provide a modular and scalable approach to developing and managing enterprise architecture, ensuring that each phase in the ADM contributes to the overall strategic goals of the organization.
The building blocks across the development phases in the TOGAF ADM
| Phase | Focus | Example Building Blocks |
|---|---|---|
| Preliminary Phase | Strategic goals and objectives | High-level business goals, strategic objectives |
| Phase A – Architecture Vision | Conceptual representation of vision | Conceptual building blocks representing key elements of the vision |
| Phase B – Business Architecture | Business processes and organization | Business processes, organizational units, information flows |
| Phase C – Information Systems | Information systems and data | Data models, application systems, interfaces |
| Architectures | ||
| Phase D – Technology Architecture | Technology components and networks | Technology components, platforms, networks |
| Phase E – Opportunities and | Opportunities for reuse and creation | Refined and adapted building blocks addressing specific requirements |
| Solutions | ||
| Phase F – Migration Planning | Migration strategy | Organized and sequenced building blocks forming the migration plan |
| Phase G – Implementation | Implementation and governance | Monitored and controlled building blocks to ensure alignment |
| Governance | ||
| Phase H – Architecture Change | Management of changes | Updated and modified building blocks in response to enterprise changes |
| Management | ||
| Phase I – Requirements | Management of architecture | Refined building blocks based on evolving requirements |
| Management | requirements |
Please note that this is a high-level overview, and the actual building blocks and their specifics would depend on the organization and the context of the architecture being developed.
Summary
This Article takes you on a journey through the various phases of TOGAF’s ADM, emphasizing the role of building blocks at each step. From the early stages of envisioning architecture to the fine-tuning of solutions and managing change, building blocks serve as the foundational elements. Whether you’re a seasoned enterprise architect or a newcomer to the field, this guide offers insights into how building blocks flow seamlessly across ADM, creating a cohesive and strategic approach to architecting the future of organizations. Dive into the world of TOGAF and empower your enterprise to thrive in an ever-changing business environment.