A few years ago I was given an opportunity to attend The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF) 9.1 training. The training was an experience that was very much appreciated. In learning about TOGAF I researched other Enterprise Architecture (EA) frameworks, such as the Zachman Framework for Enterprise Architectures, the Federal Enterprise Architecture (FEA), and Gartner (formerly, the Meta Framework). In the end of the day the question was around how does one execute on this within a company. The straightforward answer is that it not that simple. It requires support, adoption, and a value proposition.
Support from the leadership to see the value in executing an EA practice. One needs to show the value to drive the support. Without the value proposition the EA practice is going to have an uphill battle. In some establishments this value proposition has already been established, otherwise EA wouldn't be around. In some cases one is starting from the ground up. In the case where the EA practice is new, the value proposition needs to start with small wins. Start small then expand.
Adoption needs to come from teammates within the establishment. This is where communication is critical to help teammates see the value proposition as well. Without the buy-in to move in the direction and build momentum the EA practice will struggle.
Value Proposition as previously indicated is critical to help secure the support and adoption. The problem that is being addressed needs to be clear. For an EA practice the problem is managing the increasing complexity of IT systems. The second problem is delivering real business value with those systems. The desire is to foster/champion strategy to execution.
The end result is that any undertaking regardless if it is an EA practice, new process, cultural change, new product launch, or anything new to an establishment is the need for support from leadership, the adoption from teammates, and a sound value proposition is needed ensure successful execution. So start with a problem then work your way from there. Once the problem is identified, then the establishment will see the value in what is trying to be addressed and drive towards the execution together. The establishment needs to see and understand the problem that is trying to be solved, then execution can happen.
