What is TOGAF?
When working with architecture in a group of business professionals, it is a wise thing to use a common framework that provides a common language.
TOGAF is one of the most used EA Frameworks today, but what is TOGAF Architecture Framework? How does it define Enterprise Architecture?
Definition
The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF) is a framework for enterprise architecture that provides a comprehensive approach for designing, planning, implementing, and governing an enterprise information architecture.
TOGAF defines architecture in two ways 1): "Architecture is a formal description of a system, or a detailed plan of the system at the component level, to guide its implementation" and 2) "Architecture is the structure of components, their inter-relationships, and the principles and guidelines governing their design and evolution over time".
Usage
The TOGAF Architecture Framework describes a method for defining an information system in terms of a set of building blocks, it shows how the building blocks fit together, it contains a set of tools, it provides a common vocabulary, it includes a list of recommended standards and it includes a list of compliant products that can be used to implement the so-called building blocks.
Symbol
TOGAF is a registered trademark and has its own logo.
Misunderstandings
TOGAF is often thought to be an EA Framework that is applicable everywhere and its models need not be altered.
The success of working with a method is to implement the method in your way of working. Also, TOGAF needs to be implemented, and its reference models, such as the Architecture Framework model, need to be adjusted to your situation.
Examples
Examples of TOGAF are:
- Architecture Principles statements such as: Information is an Asset
- Business Architecture in the form of a document that defines the business strategy, governance, organization, and key business processes of the organization.
- The Architecture Development Method (ADM). This is the process model of TOGAF.
Further reading
Are you interested in reading more about this?
Here we have a page about TOGAF Architecture on Wikipedia.
Our intention is not to provide a complete dictionary on enterprise architecture here, but to provide only the most frequently used words in the field.
If you have a suggestion for us to improve the list or a definition, please contact us via info@dragon1.com.
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