TOGAF uses a term “Enterprise Continuum” and I wish they would think of a different phrase as it throws me each time. It’s important we know exactly what it is as it’s the key deliverable for Phase C.
It relates to three elements:
- Architecture Continuum
- Solutions Continuum
- Architecture Repository
Consider the repository as a folder full of documents, the usual raft of design content in the form of Visio, Word, Excel etc. The ‘Continuum’ gives the Repository Structure so that content becomes reusable. It will generalise a specific design such that we can abstract a template for future use, reverse is true in that we can take a template and create a targeted design.
At this stage it’s time to start looking at tool options for a TOGAF aware Architectural repository. Look for something that can fit well in the organisation in terms of collaboration, is easy to on-board and supports transformation of existing content for reuse – you cannot afford to throw anything away. Focus on the process that will generate, maintain, publish, distribute and govern deliverables.
Diagram from TOGAF shows the Continuum:
Other TOGAF Links:
- Introduction to TOGAF
- How to Establish a TOGAF EA Practice Part 1
- How to Establish a TOGAF EA Practice Part 2
- How to Establish a TOGAF EA Practice Part 3
- How to Establish a TOGAF EA Practice Part 5
