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TOGAF – The Open Group Architecture Framework

By Mark Bridges | August 26, 2023

Editor's Note: Take a look at our featured best practice, TOGAF 9.1 Training Foundation Level (286-slide PowerPoint presentation). This is a professional presentation related to TOGAF 9.1 Foundation, 286 Slides. The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF Standard) is a framework for enterprise architecture which provides a comprehensive approach for designing, planning, implementing, and governing an enterprise [read more]

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The Open Group Architecture Framework or TOGAF is a comprehensive guide to enterprise architecture, offering a structured methodology for designing, planning, implementing, and governing architectures that align with organizational goals and technology landscapes.

The TOGAF framework is built upon 3 interconnected pillars:

  1. Enterprise Architecture
  2. Architecture Development Method (ADM)
  3. Enterprise Continuum

TOGAF Framework

The Enterprise Architecture pillar is the foundation of TOGAF, providing a comprehensive blueprint for organizational transformation.

The ADM is structured into several phases, each contributing to the creation and evolution of enterprise architecture. These phases ensure a methodical progression through the architectural journey, from inception to realization.

The Enterprise Continuum is a repository of architectural assets, solutions, and patterns that architects can leverage during architecture development.

Distinct Roles within TOGAF

TOGAF defines distinct roles within its framework, including the: (a) Architecture Board, (b) Architecture Definition Document Author, (c) Solution Architect, (d) Enterprise Architect, (e) Technical Architect, and (f) Project Manager.

TOGAF offers a comprehensive certification and training program, catering to various experience levels and areas of expertise. TOGAF also offers a curated list of certified tools that align with its principles and methodologies.

TOGAF 10 introduces several notable enhancements, including updated content, enhanced methodology, integrated digital transformation, an expanded ecosystem, and an enhanced certification program. These enhancements aim to enhance the implementation journey and provide architects with specialized capabilities tailored to TOGAF principles. By addressing these criticisms, organizations can fine-tune their approach to TOGAF and extract maximum value from this powerful enterprise architecture methodology.

At the heart of TOGAF lies the Architecture Development Method (ADM), a comprehensive approach that guides the creation, management, and evolution of enterprise architectures. ADM provides a structured roadmap that takes practitioners through various phases, ensuring a methodical and organized journey towards robust architectural solutions. It revolves around 5 points and to know further about these you may read more on about TOGAF here. This lesson on TOGAF also offers a curated list of certified tools that align with the framework’s principles and methodologies, ensuring seamless implementation of enterprise architectures.

Interested in learning more about The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF)? You can download an editable TOGAF planning here on the Flevy documents marketplace.

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Excel workbook
The TOGAF Implementation Toolkit includes a set of best-practice templates, step-by-step workplans, and maturity diagnostics for any TOGAF related project. Please note the above partial preview is ONLY of the Self Assessment Excel Dashboard, referenced in steps 1 and 2 (see below for more [read more]

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