Integrating BDAT and ADM in TOGAF 9

In the context of The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF 9), Business Data Architecture and Technology (BDAT) and Architecture Development Method (ADM) are deeply interconnected to ensure the creation of a cohesive and comprehensive enterprise architecture that aligns with business goals and requirements. This article delves into the extensive relationship between BDAT and ADM, emphasizing their collaborative roles in driving business strategy through effective architecture development.

Underlying Architecture Domains: BDAT and ADM

BDAT focuses on the specific architectural domains essential for developing an enterprise architecture with a strong emphasis on business data and technological aspects. It plays a crucial role in structuring the architecture to ensure it is aligned with business goals and requirements. Conversely, ADM is the overarching method used to create, manage, and govern enterprise architecture. This method provides a structured approach to developing effective enterprise architecture.

Phases of ADM and BDAT Integration

The ADM consists of several phases: Preliminary, A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, and Requirements Management. During these phases, BDAT considerations are integrated to ensure that business needs are met through appropriate data and technology solutions. Each phase is designed to build upon the previous one, creating a robust and interconnected architecture.

Example: Phases B and C

Phase B: Business Architecture primarily focuses on defining the business strategy, governance, organization, and key business processes. This phase lays the foundation for understanding how the business operates and what its strategic objectives are.

Phase C: Information Systems Architectures, involves the detailed modeling of the data required to support the business processes. This phase is pivotal in laying out the data architecture, which is a critical component of BDAT. Ensuring that the data is structured and managed effectively is crucial for aligning with the business strategy and enabling effective technology decisions.

Guidance and Artifacts

BDAT provides specific guidelines and artifacts that can be utilized throughout the ADM. Each domain—Business, Data, Application, and Technology—contributes to the overall architecture and informs the decisions made in the various ADM phases. For instance, during Phase D: Technology Architecture, the technology components and infrastructure needed to support the applications and data architecture are defined. This ensures that the technology aligns with the business objectives.

Iterative Process of Integration

The ADM is inherently iterative. Insights gained from BDAT during one phase can influence adjustments in previous phases. For example, feedback on the Data Architecture can lead to changes in the Business Architecture or Technology Architecture. This iterative process ensures that the architecture is continuously refined and improved to meet the evolving business needs.

Alignment with Business Goals

The ultimate goal of integrating BDAT with ADM is to ensure that the architecture developed supports the strategic objectives of the organization. By fostering this alignment, TOGAF 9 helps organizations deliver value and ensures that technology and data solutions effectively meet the needs of the business.

In summary, BDAT and ADM are interconnected through their shared focus on creating a cohesive and comprehensive enterprise architecture that aligns with business goals while considering the various domains necessary for effective architecture development.

Keywords: TOGAF 9, BDAT, ADM