Enterprise architecture as the backbone of an agile organisation

Enterprise architecture as a bridge between IT and business strategy

Enterprise architecture is more than just mapping IT systems. It is the glue that binds business processes with the building blocks of IT. Enterprise architecture is still perceived as an island unto itself. A team of IT professionals disconnected from the work floor, handing down IT solutions from an ivory tower.

The opposite is actually true. Today, the IT strategy is fully aligned with the broader business objectives. The two systems work together, rather than in separate environments. And that requires a flexible, agile approach. Enterprise architects provide a solid foundation, but how they develop IT systems depends on changing market conditions.

Enterprise architecture as the backbone of an agile and future-proof organisation

Why is enterprise architecture so important? Well, because we live in a digital age where change is the only constant. Businesses that adapt quickly have a clear competitive edge. A thoughtfully designed enterprise architecture allows you the flexibility to pivot rapidly in response to new opportunities and threats.

Or, as the British-American management guru Simon Sinek puts it, companies play an ‘infinite game’ these days. What does that mean, specifically? Success is no longer defined by reaching a particular endpoint, but by continuously adapting to a shifting environment.

In short, a strong enterprise architecture supports the business strategy, allowing you to stay responsive as a company and better meet customer needs, yet retain a more cost-effective IT landscape.

Agile versus enterprise architecture

A persistent misconception: companies that use agile methodologies don't need enterprise architecture. Think again. Agile focuses on flexibility and quick responses to change. Which is precisely why a solid architecture is vital. It ensures that IT systems are ready for these changes.

Without a clear architecture an organisation risks a chaotic, disorganised IT infrastructure. And that brings high maintenance costs, security issues and reduced agility.

Enterprise architecture tailored to your organisation

An enterprise architecture isn't built overnight. It is an ongoing process. How do we approach it? By doing our fieldwork, you might say, in an organisation. Placing both feet on the work floor and a finger on the pulse. Every day brings new insights.

This is how we support public institutions in developing their IT landscape. Policymakers often present their strategic ambitions, but the lines are still a little vague. For greater clarity, we begin by consulting the various 'organisation owners'. What is this organisation structure? What departments are there? Do the departments operate in the same way, or are they entirely distinct entities? What data do they exchange? All these aspects can be clarified. We also go through political policy documents to gain a clear understanding of the objectives.

Are we finished at that point? Far from it. What typifies us is our commitment to realising these goals. This is often a process that takes years. But that is what makes it so interesting. Thanks to our thorough understanding of the organisation, we think along. More importantly, we think ahead, in anticipation of every possible development.

The person behind the architecture

One of the biggest challenges? Getting everyone on board. To begin with, you need to make sure you are speaking the same language. For many, IT is a long way from home. That is why we often use metaphors to visualise an idea.

Secondly, change often brings resistance. As an enterprise architect, you are also something of a psychologist whose job is to divert that resistance. A knowledge of people and communication skills is invaluable.

It sounds counterintuitive, but we are not into dull PowerPoints. The best dynamics often come from in-person meetings, where ideas are scribbled on post-its. Very old school.

Applications as building blocks

Once the initial framework has been set for an architecture in accordance with the BUY, BUILD and BLEND principle, we assemble our teams. Ready-made solutions are often a poor match for unique business needs. Where customisation is required, our teams build a modular system that can be adapted with flexibility. How we build and implement it will also vary from organisation to organisation. To make sure that it runs smoothly, we rely on established playbooks. If a particular department needs an IT solution, we assign a single, dedicated team that is familiar with that department's business strategies. This is known as a stream-aligned team. Often, organisations have several departments, each with its own stream-aligned team. At the same time, some needs span departments and benefit from a shared hosting platform. Here, the platform team ensures effective interaction between IT and business. This creates a healthy mix of teams that understand the organisation well and can develop applications to meet diverse needs with efficiency.

Architect with common sense

Enterprise architecture is neither a black-and-white technique nor a magical formula. It is mostly common sense combined with a strategic vision of how IT and business processes can be complementary. If your organisation wants to continue growing in an ever-evolving digital world, a robust architecture isn't a luxury, but a necessity.

Not sure where to start? Feel free to get in touch. Our enterprise architects are ready to serve as the crucial link between your business and IT strategy.

Get in touch with us for an informal conversation with one of our enterprise architects.