OGEA-103 Questions and Answers

Based on the TOGAF standard, this answer is the best approach for architecture development to realize the CEO’s change in direction for the company. The reason is as follows:

The scenario describes a major business transformation that requires a clear understanding of the current and future states of the enterprise, as well as the gaps and opportunities for change. Therefore, the priority is to understand and bring structure to the definition of the change, rather than focusing on the implementation details or the technology aspects.

The team should use the TOGAF ADM as the method and guiding framework for architecture development, and adapt it to suit the specific needs and context of the enterprise. The team should also leverage the existing Architecture Capability and the Architecture Repository to reuse and integrate relevant architecture assets and resources.

The team should focus iteration cycles on a baseline first approach to architecture development, which means starting with the definition of the Baseline Architecture in each domain (Business, Data, Application, and Technology), and then defining the Target Architecture in each domain. This will help to identify the current and desired states of the enterprise, and to perform a gap analysis to determine what needs to change in order to achieve the business goals and objectives.

The team should then focus on transition planning, which involves identifying and prioritizing the work packages, projects, and activities that will deliver the change. The team should also create an Architecture Roadmap and an Implementation and Migration Plan that will guide the execution and governance of the change.

The team should use the Architecture Vision phase and the Requirements Management phase to work out in detail what the shared vision is for the change, and to capture and validate the stakeholder requirements and expectations. The team should also use the Architecture Governance framework to ensure the quality, consistency, and compliance of the architecture work.

References: : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Architecture Development Method : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Architecture Vision : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Requirements Management : [The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Architecture Governance]

In TOGAF, creating a Business Scenario is a foundational step in defining and understanding the business problem, especially for complex transformations involving multiple stakeholders and systems, such as in this scenario. This method aligns with Phase A (Architecture Vision) of the TOGAF Architecture Development Method (ADM). Here’s why this approach is the most effective:

Understanding Business Requirements:A Business Scenario provides a structured way to capture and analyze the business requirements, stakeholder concerns, and the contextual elements related to the problem. In this scenario, the company faces challenges in integrating newly acquired companies with existing operations, which includes complex stakeholder concerns across different functional areas. Developing a Business Scenario allows the EA team to break down these complexities into identifiable and manageable parts.

Risk Evaluation and Management:By using the Business Scenario approach, the EA team can not only define the requirements but also assess associated risks systematically. TOGAF emphasizes the importance of risk management through identifying potential risks, evaluating their impact, and defining strategies for handling these risks. The process includes assessing how risks can be avoided, transferred, or reduced—a necessary step in large-scale transformations to ensure that risks are proactively managed.

Residual Risks and Governance:Any risks that cannot be fully resolved should be identified as residual risks and escalated to the Architecture Board, which is aligned with TOGAF’s governance approach. The Architecture Board’s role in TOGAF is to provide oversight and make critical decisions on risks that exceed the control of the EA team. This ensures that unresolved risks are managed at the appropriate level of the organization.

Alignment with TOGAF ADM Phases:The Business Scenario approach directly aligns with the Preliminary and Architecture Vision phases of the TOGAF ADM, which focuses on establishing a baseline understanding of the business context and the strategic transformation required. The detailed understanding of requirements, stakeholder concerns, and risks identified here will guide the subsequent phases of the ADM, including Business Architecture and Information Systems Architecture.

TOGAF Reference (Section 2.6, ADM Techniques):TOGAF provides guidelines on the creation of Business Scenarios as part of ADM Techniques, highlighting the importance of defining a business problem comprehensively to ensure successful transformation. This method includes identification of stakeholders, business requirements, and associated risks, which aligns well with the company's need for strategic and systematic integration of new business units.

By utilizing a Business Scenario, the EA team ensures that all aspects of the transformation are well understood, risks are identified early, and residual risks are managed effectively, aligning with the company's strategic objectives and the TOGAF framework’s guidance on risk management and stakeholder alignment.

A Request for Architecture Work is a document that describes the scope, approach, and expected outcomes of an architecture project. A Request for Architecture Work is usually initiated by the sponsor or client of the architecture work, and approved by the Architecture Board, which is a governance body that oversees the architecture work and ensures compliance with the architecture principles, standards, and goals. A Request for Architecture Work triggers a new cycle of the Architecture Development Method (ADM), which is the core process of the TOGAF standard that guides the development and management of the enterprise architecture12

An Architecture Vision is a high-level description of the desired outcomes and benefits of the proposed architecture. An Architecture Vision is the output of Phase A: Architecture Vision of the ADM cycle, which is the first phase of the architecture development. An Architecture Vision defines the scope and approach of the architecture work, and establishes the business goals and drivers that motivate the architecture work. An Architecture Vision also involves obtaining the approval and commitment of the sponsors and other key stakeholders, and initiating the Architecture Governance process3

A trade-off analysis is a technique that can be used to evaluate and compare different architecture alternatives and select the most suitable one. A trade-off analysis involves identifying the criteria and factors that are relevant to the decision, such as costs, benefits, risks, and opportunities, and assessing the strengths and weaknesses of each alternative. A trade-off analysis also involves balancing and reconciling the multiple, often conflicting, requirements and concerns of the stakeholders, and ensuring alignment with the Architecture Vision and the Architecture Principles.

Therefore, the best answer is D, because it proposes the best approach for architecture development to realize the CEO’s change in direction for the company. The answer covers the Request for Architecture Work, the Architecture Vision, and the trade-off analysis techniques that are relevant to the scenario.

References: 1: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 7: Request for Architecture Work 2: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part VI: Architecture Capability Framework, Chapter 50: Architecture Governance 3: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 18: Phase A: Architecture Vision : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 30: Trade-Off Analysis

A Stakeholder Map is a technique that can be used to identify and classify the stakeholders of the architecture work, and to document their key interests, requirements, and concerns. A stakeholder is any person, group, or organization that has a stake in the outcome of the architecture work, such as the sponsor, the client, the users, the suppliers, the regulators, or the competitors. A Stakeholder Map can help to understand the needs and expectations of the stakeholders, and to communicate and engage with them effectively1

The steps for creating a Stakeholder Map are:

Identify the stakeholders of the architecture work, using various sources and methods, such as interviews, surveys, workshops, or existing documents.

Classify the stakeholders according to their roles, responsibilities, and relationships, using various criteria and dimensions, such as power, influence, interest, attitude, or impact.

Define the concerns and relevant views for each stakeholder group, using various techniques, such as business scenarios, use cases, or value propositions. A concern is a key interest or issue that is relevant to the stakeholder, such as a goal, a problem, a need, or a risk. A view is a representation of the system of interest from the perspective of one or more stakeholders and their concerns.

Record the stakeholders and their concerns in a Stakeholder Map, which shows the mapping between the stakeholder groups, the concerns, and the views. The Stakeholder Map also shows the dependencies, assumptions, and issues related to each stakeholder and concern.

Therefore, the best answer is B, because it recommends the approach that would enable the development of an architecture that addresses the concerns of the CIO and the partners, using the Stakeholder Map technique. The answer covers the following aspects:

An analysis of the stakeholders is undertaken, which involves identifying, classifying, and defining the stakeholders and their concerns.

The stakeholders and their concerns are documented in a Stakeholder Map, which provides a clear and comprehensive picture of the stakeholder landscape and their interests.

The concerns and relevant views are recorded in the Architecture Vision document, which is the output of Phase A: Architecture Vision of the Architecture Development Method (ADM), which is the core process of the TOGAF standard that guides the development and management of the enterprise architecture. The Architecture Vision defines the scope and approach of the architecture work, and establishes the business goals and drivers that motivate the architecture work. The Architecture Vision also involves obtaining the approval and commitment of the sponsors and other key stakeholders, and initiating the Architecture Governance process2

The requirements include risk mitigation through regular assessments, which involves identifying, analyzing, and evaluating the risks that may affect the architecture, and determining the appropriate measures or actions to prevent, reduce, or mitigate the risks. Risk mitigation can also involve monitoring and reviewing the risk situation, and communicating and reporting the risk status and actions3

This approach also allows a supervised agile implementation of the continuous Machine Learning, which involves applying agile principles and practices to the architecture development and implementation, such as iterative and incremental delivery, frequent feedback, collaboration, and adaptation. A supervised agile implementation can help to ensure the quality, value, and alignment of the architecture, and to respond to the changing needs and expectations of the stakeholders.

References: 1: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 24: Stakeholder Management 2: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 18: Phase A: Architecture Vision 3: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 32: Risk Management : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 29: Applying Iteration to the ADM

The best answer is C. You would hold a series of interviews at each of the manufacturing plants using the business scenarios technique. This will allow you to understand the systems and integrations with local partners. You would use stakeholder analysis to identify key players in the engagement, and to understand their concerns. You will then identify and document the key high-level stakeholder requirements for the architecture. You will then generate high level definitions of the baseline and target architectures.

This answer is based on the TOGAF standard, which recommends the following steps to initiate the architecture project1:

Establish the architecture project

Identify stakeholders, concerns, and business requirements

Confirm and elaborate business goals, business drivers, and constraints

Evaluate business capabilities

Assess readiness for business transformation

Define scope

Confirm and elaborate Architecture Principles, including business principles

Develop Architecture Vision

Define the Target Architecture value propositions and KPIs

Identify the business transformation risks and mitigation activities

Secure stakeholder and sponsor approval

The answer C covers most of these steps, by using the business scenarios technique to elicit and validate the business requirements, goals, drivers, and constraints, as well as the current and future states of the architecture2. The answer C also uses stakeholder analysis to identify and engage the key stakeholders, and to address their concerns and expectations3. The answer C also generates high level definitions of the baseline and target architectures, which can be used to develop the Architecture Vision and the value propositions4.

The other answers are not the best approach for architecture development, because:

Answer A focuses on researching vendor literature and conducting briefings with vendors, which is not the best way to understand the business needs and the current situation of the enterprise. Answer A also defines a preliminary Architecture Vision without involving the stakeholders or validating the requirements, which may lead to misalignment and lack of consensus.

Answer B conducts a pilot project that will enable vendors to demonstrate potential solutions, which is premature and costly at this stage of the architecture project. Answer B also does not address the stakeholder concerns or the current systems and integrations, which may result in gaps and risks. Answer B also develops the requirements after the pilot project, which may not reflect the actual business needs and goals.

Answer D develops baseline and target architectures for each of the manufacturing plants, which may not consider the enterprise-wide perspective and the potential benefits of a common ERP system. Answer D also does not involve the stakeholders or address their concerns, which may result in resistance and conflict. Answer D also does not define the business case or the performance metrics, which are essential for demonstrating the value and feasibility of the architecture.

References: 1: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Architecture Vision 2: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Business Scenarios 3: [The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Stakeholder Management] 4: [The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Architecture Definition Document]

According to the TOGAF standard, the Target Architecture is the description of a future state of the architecture being developed for an organization. It should be aligned with the Architecture Vision, Principles, and Requirements that have been agreed with the stakeholders. To address the incompatibilities between key stakeholder preferences, the TOGAF standard recommends creating and evaluating multiple alternative Target Architectures that meet different sets of criteria. These criteria should reflect the value preferences and priorities of the stakeholders, as well as the business drivers and objectives. The alternative Target Architectures should be illustrated using a set of architecture views that show the impact of each alternative on the business, data, application, and technology domains. The impact on planned projects should also be identified and analyzed. The strengths and weaknesses of each alternative should be understood and documented. A formal stakeholder review should then be conducted to decide which alternative is the most fit for purpose and should be moved forward with. The funding required for implementing the chosen alternative should also be determined and secured. References:

The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Phase B: Business Architecture - The Open Group

The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Phase C: Information Systems Architectures - The Open Group

[The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Phase D: Technology Architecture - The Open Group]

[The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Phase E: Opportunities and Solutions - The Open Group]

[The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Phase F: Migration Planning - The Open Group]

Key aspects of the scenario:

Business Objective:

A merger is happening to combine offerings, reduce costs, and achieve operational efficiency.

The goal includes fully integrating retail operations and systems, replacing duplicated systems, and reducing the number of applications used.

Technological Improvements:

A central AI-based inventory system is in place.

Hand-held devices for stores have improved customer and staff satisfaction and increased efficiency.

Scope of Architecture Work:

Integrating the merged systems.

Managing retail architecture to optimize operations.

TOGAF Alignment:

TOGAF principles aim to ensure the architecture supports business transformation effectively while aligning with governance and best practices.

Best answer analysis:

Option 1:

Maximize Benefit to the Enterprise: Aligns with the merger goals of cost reduction and efficiency.

Common Use Applications: Matches the goal to reduce duplicated systems.

Data is an Asset: Central AI system depends on accurate and reliable data.

Responsive Change Management: Necessary to support the transition and manage organizational impacts.

Technology Independence: Encourages selecting flexible, scalable solutions post-merger.

This option comprehensively aligns with the scenario.

Option 2:

Control Technical Diversity: Important but less emphasized than cost reduction and application unification.

Interoperability: Relevant, but less critical compared to principles addressing business value.

Data is an Asset: Relevant.

Data is Shared: Implied in centralized inventory but not directly stated.

Business Continuity: Important but not the main focus here.

This option partially fits but lacks emphasis on business outcomes.

Option 3:

Common Vocabulary and Data Definitions: Indirectly helpful but not central to the transformation.

Compliance with the Law: Always critical, but no explicit legal issues are mentioned.

Requirements-Based Change: General principle but not transformation-specific.

Responsive Change Management: Relevant.

Data Security: Important but not a central concern in the scenario.

This option focuses more on governance and less on merger goals.

Option 4:

Common Use Applications: Relevant to reducing duplicate systems.

Data is an Asset: Relevant.

Data is Accessible: Fits with AI system and handheld devices but is a subset of "Data is an Asset."

Ease of Use: Relevant to handheld devices but not a core transformation principle.

Business Continuity: Important but secondary to cost and efficiency.

This option focuses more on usability and accessibility rather than transformation objectives.

A security domain model is a technique that can be used to define the security requirements and policies for the architecture. A security domain is a grouping of assets that share a common level of security and trust. A security policy is a set of rules and procedures that govern the access and protection of the assets within a security domain. A security domain model can help to identify the security domains, the assets within each domain, the security policies for each domain, and the relationships and dependencies between the domains1

Since the data is being shared across partners, a security federation is needed to establish a trust relationship and a common security framework among the different parties. A security federation is a collection of security domains that have agreed to interoperate under a set of shared security policies and standards. A security federation can enable secure data exchange and collaboration across organizational boundaries, while preserving the autonomy and privacy of each party. A security federation requires contractual arrangements, and a definition of the responsibility areas for the data exchanged, as well as security implications2

A risk assessment is a process that identifies, analyzes, and evaluates the risks that may affect the architecture. A risk assessment can help to determine the likelihood and impact of the threats and vulnerabilities that may compromise the security and privacy of the data assets. A risk assessment can also help to prioritize and mitigate the risks, and to monitor and review the risk situation3

Therefore, the best answer is D, because it describes the risk and security considerations that would be included in the current phase of the architecture development, which is focused on the Business Architecture. The answer covers the security domain model, the security federation, and the risk assessment techniques that are relevant to the scenario.

References: 1: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 35: Security Architecture and the ADM 2: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part IV: Architecture Content Framework, Chapter 38: Security Architecture 3: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 32: Risk Management

The illustration shows an architecture development cycle based on the TOGAF ADM (Architecture Development Method), which is a method for developing and managing an enterprise architecture1.

The ADM consists of nine phases, each with a specific purpose and output. The phases are1:

Preliminary Phase: To prepare and initiate the architecture development cycle, including defining the architecture framework, principles, and governance.

Phase A: Architecture Vision: To define the scope, vision, and stakeholders of the architecture initiative, and to obtain approval to proceed.

Phase B: Business Architecture: To describe the baseline and target business architecture, and to identify the gaps between them.

Phase C: Information Systems Architectures: To describe the baseline and target data and application architectures, and to identify the gaps between them.

Phase D: Technology Architecture: To describe the baseline and target technology architecture, and to identify the gaps between them.

Phase E: Opportunities and Solutions: To identify and evaluate the opportunities and solutions for implementing the target architecture, and to define the work packages and transition architectures.

Phase F: Migration Planning: To finalize the implementation and migration plan, and to ensure alignment with the enterprise portfolio and project management.

Phase G: Implementation Governance: To provide architecture oversight and guidance for the implementation projects, and to manage any architecture change requests.

Phase H: Architecture Change Management: To monitor the changes in the business and technology environment, and to assess the impact and performance of the architecture.

In addition to these phases, there is a central process called Requirements Management, which is labeled as item 1 in the illustration. This process operates throughout the ADM cycle, and its purpose is to manage the architecture requirements throughout the architecture development, ensuring that they are aligned with the business requirements and the stakeholder concerns2.

Therefore, the description that matches the phase of the ADM labeled as item 1 is C. Operates the process of managing architecture requirements.

References:

1: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Chapter 5: Architecture Development Method (ADM)

2: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Chapter 17: Requirements Management

Business principles business goals, and business drivers provide context for architecture work, by describing the needs and ways of working employed by the enterprise. They define what the enterprise wants to achieve, how it wants to operate, and what factors influence its decisions and actions. Reference: The TOGAF® Standard | The Open Group Website, Section 3.2 Preliminary Phase.

The Target Architecture is a description of the future state of the architecture that addresses the business goals and drivers, and satisfies the stakeholder requirements and concerns. The Target Architecture is developed through the Architecture Development Method (ADM), which is the core process of the TOGAF standard that guides the development and management of the enterprise architecture. The Target Architecture is typically divided into four domains: Business, Data, Application, and Technology. The Target Architecture also includes a roadmap for change, which defines the Transition Architectures, the Capability Increments, and the work packages that enable the transition from the Baseline Architecture to the Target Architecture12

The best answer is B, because it describes the approach that should be taken to determine and organize the work to deliver the requested architectures, which are the Information Systems and Technology Architectures. The answer covers the following steps:

Refer to the end-to-end Target Architecture for guidance and direction. The end-to-end Target Architecture provides the overall vision, scope, and objectives of the architecture work, and the alignment with the business strategy and goals. The end-to-end Target Architecture also provides the high-level definitions and principles for the four architecture domains, and the roadmap for change that outlines the major milestones and deliverables.

Identify projects, dependencies and synergies, then prioritize before initiating the projects. Projects are the units of work that implement the architecture work packages, which are the sets of actions or tasks that are required to implement a specific part of the architecture. Dependencies are the relationships and constraints that affect the order or priority of the projects, such as logical, temporal, or resource dependencies. Synergies are the benefits or advantages that result from the combination or coordination of the projects, such as cost savings, efficiency gains, or innovation opportunities. Prioritization is the process of ranking the projects according to their importance, urgency, or value, and assigning resources and schedules accordingly.

Develop high-level architecture descriptions. High-level architecture descriptions are the outputs of the architecture development phases (B, C, and D) of the ADM cycle, which describe the Business, Data, Application, and Technology Architectures in terms of the Architecture Building Blocks (ABBs) and the Solution Building Blocks (SBBs), which are reusable components of business, IT, or architectural capability. High-level architecture descriptions also include the Architecture Views, which are representations of the system of interest from the perspective of one or more stakeholders and their concerns.

For each project, estimate effort size, identify reference architectures, and candidate building blocks. Effort size is the measure of the amount of work, time, or resources required to complete a project. Effort size can be estimated using various techniques, such as analogy, expert judgment, parametric, or bottom-up. Reference architectures are standardized architectures that provide a common framework and vocabulary for a specific domain or industry. Reference architectures can be used as a source of best practices, patterns, and models for the architecture development. Candidate building blocks are the potential ABBs or SBBs that can be used to implement the architecture. Candidate building blocks can be identified from the Architecture Repository, which is a collection of architecture assets, such as models, patterns, principles, standards, and guidelines.

Identify the resource needs considering cost and value. Resource needs are the specifications and criteria that define the acceptable level and quality of the resources required to complete the project, such as human, financial, physical, or technological resources. Resource needs can be identified by analyzing the scope, complexity, and dependencies of the project, and the availability, capability, and suitability of the resources. Cost and value are the factors that influence the allocation and utilization of the resources, such as the budget, the return on investment, the benefits, or the risks.

Document options, risks, and controls to enable viability analysis and trade-off with the stakeholders. Options are the alternative ways of achieving the project objectives, such as different solutions, technologies, vendors, or approaches. Risks are the effects of uncertainty on the project objectives, such as threats or opportunities. Controls are the measures or actions that are taken to prevent, reduce, or mitigate the risks, such as policies, procedures, or standards. Viability analysis is the process of evaluating and comparing the options, risks, and controls, and determining the feasibility, suitability, and desirability of each option. Trade-off is the decision outcome that balances and reconciles the multiple, often conflicting, requirements and concerns of the stakeholders, and ensures alignment with the Architecture Vision and the Architecture Principles.

References: 1: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 5: Introduction to the ADM 2: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part IV: Architecture Content Framework, Chapter 36: Building Blocks : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 18: Phase A: Architecture Vision : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 19: Phase B: Business Architecture : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 20: Phase C: Information Systems Architectures : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 21: Phase F: Migration Planning : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 23: Architecture Principles : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 30: Trade-Off Analysis : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part VI: Architecture Capability Framework, Chapter 46: Tools for Architecture Development : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part VI: Architecture Capability Framework, Chapter 47: Architecture Board : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part VI: Architecture Capability Framework, Chapter 48: Architecture Compliance : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part VI: Architecture Capability Framework, Chapter 49: Architecture Contract : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part VI: Architecture Capability Framework, Chapter 50: Architecture Governance : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part VI: Architecture Capability Framework, Chapter 51: Architecture Maturity Models : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part VI: Architecture Capability Framework, Chapter 52: Architecture Skills Framework

The Preliminary Phase is the preparatory phase of the Architecture Development Method (ADM) cycle, which sets the context and direction for the architecture work. One of the objectives of this phase is to select and implement tools to support the Architecture Capability, which is the ability of an organization to perform enterprise architecture effectively and efficiently. Tools can include software applications, methods, techniques, standards, and frameworks that assist the architecture development and governance processes. The selection and implementation of tools should be based on the requirements and constraints of the organization, and the alignment with the Architecture Principles and the Architecture Vision3 References: 3: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 6: Preliminary Phase : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part VI: Architecture Capability Framework, Chapter 45: Establishing and Maintaining an Enterprise Architecture Capability : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part VI: Architecture Capability Framework, Chapter 46: Tools for Architecture Development

The Request for Architecture Work is a deliverable that is sent from the sponsor and triggers the start of an architecture development cycle. It defines the scope, budget, schedule, and deliverables for a specific architecture project. The Statement of Architecture Work is a deliverable that is produced by the architect and defines the approach and resources needed to complete an architecture project. It forms the basis of a contractual agreement between the sponsor and the architecture organization. The Architecture Principles are a deliverable that is produced by the architect and defines the general rules and guidelines for the architecture work. They reflect the business principles, business goals, and business drivers of the organization. The Architecture Requirements Specification is a deliverable that is produced by the architect and defines the requirements that govern the architecture work. It covers both functional and non-functional requirements as well as constraints and assumptions. 

The Architecture Requirements Specification is one of the TOGAF deliverables that provides a set of quantitative statements that outline what an implementation project must do in order to comply with the architecture12. It is a companion to the Architecture Definition Document, which provides a qualitative view of the solution and aims to communicate the intent of the architect. The Architecture Requirements Specification provides a quantitative view of the solution, stating measurable criteria that must be met during the implementation of the architecture3. It typically forms a major component of an implementation contract or contract for more detailed Architecture Definition4. References:

•Deliverable: Architecture Requirements Specification - The Open Group

•Architecture Requirements Specification - Visual Paradigm Community Circle

•The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Definitions - The Open Group

•The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Architecture Requirements Specification - The Open Group

Business continuity is the ability of an organization to maintain essential functions during and after a disaster or disruption. Business continuity requirements are the specifications and criteria that define the acceptable level of performance and availability of the business processes and services in the event of a disaster or disruption. A gap analysis is a technique that compares the current state of the architecture with the desired state, and identifies the gaps or differences that need to be addressed. A change request is a formal proposal for an amendment to some product or system, such as the architecture. A Request for Architecture Work is a document that describes the scope, approach, and expected outcomes of an architecture project123

The best answer is A, because it describes the steps that would improve the resilience of the current architecture, which is the ability to withstand and recover from a ransomware attack or any other disruption. The steps are:

Determine the business continuity requirements, which specify the minimum acceptable level of performance and availability of the business processes and services in case of a ransomware attack. This would involve identifying the critical business functions, the recovery time objectives, the recovery point objectives, and the dependencies and resources needed for recovery.

Undertake a gap analysis of the current Enterprise Architecture, which compares the current state of the architecture with the desired state based on the business continuity requirements. This would involve assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the current architecture, the risks and opportunities for improvement, and the gaps or differences that need to be addressed.

Make recommendations for change requirements to address the situation and create a change request. This would involve proposing solutions and alternatives to close the gaps, enhance the resilience, and mitigate the risks of the current architecture. The change request would document the rationale, scope, impact, and benefits of the proposed changes, and seek approval from the relevant stakeholders.

Manage a meeting of the Architecture Board to assess and approve the change request. The Architecture Board is a governance body that oversees the architecture work and ensures compliance with the architecture principles, standards, and goals. The meeting would involve presenting the change request, discussing the pros and cons, resolving any issues or conflicts, and obtaining the approval or rejection of the change request.

Once approved, produce a new Request for Architecture Work to activate an ADM cycle to carry out a project to define the change. The Request for Architecture Work would describe the scope, approach, and expected outcomes of the architecture project that would implement the approved change request. The Request for Architecture Work would initiate a new cycle of the Architecture Development Method (ADM), which is the core process of the TOGAF standard that guides the development and management of the enterprise architecture.

References: 1: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 33: Business Scenarios 2: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 30: Gap Analysis 3: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 31: Architecture Change Management : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 7: Request for Architecture Work : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 34: Business Transformation Readiness Assessment : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 30: Gap Analysis : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 31: Architecture Change Management : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part VI: Architecture Capability Framework, Chapter 50: Architecture Governance : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 7: Request for Architecture Work

The Business Value Assessment Technique is a technique that can be used to estimate and compare the business value of the projects and project increments that implement the architecture work packages, which are the sets of actions or tasks that are required to implement a specific part of the architecture. The business value is the measure of the benefits or advantages that the project or project increment delivers to the business, such as increased revenue, reduced costs, improved quality, or enhanced customer satisfaction1

The steps for applying the Business Value Assessment Technique are:

Identify the criteria and factors that are relevant to the business value assessment, such as costs, benefits, risks, and opportunities. The criteria and factors should be aligned with the business goals and drivers that motivate the architecture work, and the stakeholder requirements and concerns that influence the architecture work.

Assign weights and scores to the criteria and factors, using various methods, such as expert judgment, historical data, or analytical models. The weights and scores should reflect the importance and performance of the criteria and factors, and the trade-offs and preferences of the stakeholders.

Calculate the business value for each project or project increment, using various techniques, such as net present value, return on investment, or balanced scorecard. The business value should indicate the expected or actual outcomes and impacts of the project or project increment on the business.

Prioritize the implementation projects and project increments, based on the business value and other considerations, such as dependencies, resources, or risks. The prioritization should determine the order or sequence of the projects and project increments, and the allocation and utilization of the resources.

Therefore, the best answer is C, because it describes the next steps for the migration planning, which are the activities that support the transition from the Baseline Architecture to the Target Architecture. The answer covers the Business Value Assessment Technique, which is relevant to the scenario.

References: 1: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 28: Business Value Assessment Technique : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 18: Phase A: Architecture Vision : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 21: Phase F: Migration Planning : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part IV: Architecture Content Framework, Chapter 36: Building Blocks

Building blocks are reusable components of business, IT, or architectural capability that can be combined to deliver architectures and solutions. Building blocks can be defined at various levels of detail, depending on the stage of architecture development. In the earlier phases of the ADM cycle (A to D), building blocks are defined in generic terms, such as logical or physical, to provide a high-level view of the architecture. In Phase E: Opportunities and Solutions, building blocks become implementation-specific, meaning that they are linked to specific products, standards, technologies, and vendors that are available in the market. This phase also identifies the delivery vehicles, such as projects, programs, or portfolios, that will realize the building blocks12 References: 1: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part II: Architecture Development Method (ADM), Chapter 23: Phase E: Opportunities and Solutions 2: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part IV: Architecture Content Framework, Chapter 36: Building Blocks

 In Phase E of the ADM cycle, building block gaps become associated with work packages that will address the gaps. This phase involves creating an Implementation and Migration Plan that defines a set of work packages and Transition Architectures that will deliver the Target Architecture. Reference: The TOGAF® Standard | The Open Group Website, Section 3.2.5 Phase E: Opportunities & Solutions.

According to the TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition, the Preliminary Phase of the Architecture Development Method (ADM) has the purpose to develop an Enterprise Architecture Capability 1. An Enterprise Architecture Capability is the ability of the organization to perform the activities and tasks related to Enterprise Architecture, such as defining the scope, principles, vision, governance, and stakeholders of the architecture. The Preliminary Phase also establishes the architecture framework, the architecture repository, the architecture tools, and the architecture team 1. The other options are not correct, as they have different purposes in the ADM. Phase G: Implementation Governance has the purpose to ensure that the implementation projects conform to the target architecture 2. Phase A: Architecture Vision has the purpose to define the scope, stakeholders, business drivers, and objectives of the architecture project 3. Phase B: Business Architecture has the purpose to describe the baseline and target business architecture, and to identify the gaps between them . References: 1: TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition, Part II: Architecture Development Method, Chapter 6: Preliminary Phase. 2: TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition, Part II: Architecture Development Method, Chapter 18: Phase G: Implementation Governance. 3: TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition, Part II: Architecture Development Method, Chapter 12: Phase A: Architecture Vision. : TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition, Part II: Architecture Development Method, Chapter 13: Phase B: Business Architecture.

The statement "Projects may cycle between ADM phases, in planned cycles covering multiple phases" illustrates the concept of iteration, which is the process of repeating the ADM phases or steps within a phase to refine the architecture outputs and address the changing requirements and stakeholder concerns. Iteration can occur at different levels of granularity and scope, such as within a single phase, across multiple phases, or across the entire ADM cycle. Iteration can also be applied to different architecture domains, such as business, data, application, and technology. Iteration is a key feature of the ADM that enables the development of architectures that are fit for purpose, adaptable, and responsive to change. References: : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 24: Applying Iteration to the ADM

According to the TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition, a transformation readiness assessment is a technique that evaluates the preparedness of the organization to undergo a change, and identifies the actions needed to increase the likelihood of a successful outcome. A transformation readiness assessment can be conducted in Phase E: Opportunities and Solutions, and the actions resulting from it can be dealt with in Phase F: Migration Planning 1. In Phase E, the transformation readiness assessment can help to identify the major implementation challenges and risks, and to define the critical success factors and key performance indicators for the architecture project. In Phase F, the actions resulting from the transformation readiness assessment can help to develop a detailed and realistic migration plan, and to address the gaps, issues, and dependencies that may affect the transition to the target architecture 1. References: 1: TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 29: Business Transformation Readiness Assessment.

Architecture Principles are general rules and guidelines that inform and support the way in which an organization sets about fulfilling its mission. They reflect a level of consensus among the various elements of the enterprise, and form the basis for making future IT decisions. One of the purposes of Architecture Principles is to establish a common understanding of how to control the business in pursuit of strategic objectives, by providing a framework for evaluating and agreeing on the changes that affect the enterprise’s architecture3 References: 3: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 23: Architecture Principles : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part IV: Architecture Content Framework, Chapter 31: Architecture Principles

Enterprises are examples of the scope of an architecture according to the TOGAF Standard. An enterprise is defined as any collection of organizations that has a common set of goals and/or a single bottom line. Enterprises can be whole corporations or divisions of a corporation, government agencies or single government departments, partnerships and alliances of businesses working together, etc. Reference: The TOGAF® Standard | The Open Group Website, Section 2.1 Core Concepts.

When considering agile development, Architecture to Support Portfolio will identify the necessary products for the enterprise, define their boundaries, and outline the constraints for a product owner. This process directly relates to defining the enterprise's backlog, which in agile methodologies, is a prioritized list of work for the development team that is derived from the roadmap and its requirements.

Architecture governance is the practice of ensuring compliance with the enterprise architecture and its principles, standards, and goals. Architecture governance provides the means to establish, monitor, and control the architecture development and implementation processes, and to resolve any issues or conflicts that may arise. Architecture governance also ensures that all stakeholders are represented and involved in the decision-making process, and that their interests and concerns are balanced and aligned. Statements 1 and 2 highlight the value and necessity for architecture governance to be adopted within organizations, as they emphasize the importance of responsibility, accountability, fairness, and transparency in the architectural activities. Statements 3 and 4 are more related to the benefits and outcomes of having a good enterprise architecture, rather than the governance aspect.References: : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part VI: Architecture Capability Framework, Chapter 50: Architecture Governance : The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Part III: ADM Guidelines and Techniques, Chapter 29: Architecture Governance

According to the TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, the ADM phases and their objectives are as follows1:

Preliminary Phase: To prepare and initiate the architecture development cycle, including defining the architecture framework, principles, and governance.

Phase A: Architecture Vision: To define the scope, vision, and stakeholders of the architecture initiative, and to obtain approval to proceed.

Phase B: Business Architecture: To describe the baseline and target business architecture, and to identify the gaps between them.

Phase C: Information Systems Architectures: To describe the baseline and target data and application architectures, and to identify the gaps between them.

Phase D: Technology Architecture: To describe the baseline and target technology architecture, and to identify the gaps between them.

Phase E: Opportunities and Solutions: To identify and evaluate the opportunities and solutions for implementing the target architecture, and to define the work packages and transition architectures.

Phase F: Migration Planning: To finalize the implementation and migration plan, and to ensure alignment with the enterprise portfolio and project management.

Phase G: Implementation Governance: To provide architecture oversight and guidance for the implementation projects, and to manage any architecture change requests.

Phase H: Architecture Change Management: To monitor the changes in the business and technology environment, and to assess the impact and performance of the architecture.

Requirements Management: To manage the architecture requirements throughout the ADM cycle, and to ensure alignment with the business requirements.

Based on the above definitions, we can match each objective with the corresponding phase as follows:

Objective 1: Ensure that the business value and cost of work packages and transition architectures is understood by key stakeholders. This objective is achieved in Phase H: Architecture Change Management, where the value realization and cost-benefit analysis of the architecture are performed2.

Objective 2: Ensure conformance with the Target Architecture by implementation projects. This objective is achieved in Phase F: Migration Planning, where the conformance requirements and criteria for the implementation projects are defined3.

Objective 3: Ensure that the architecture development cycle is maintained. This objective is achieved in Phase F: Migration Planning, where the architecture roadmap and iteration cycle are maintained3.

Objective 4: Ensure that the Architecture Governance Framework is executed. This objective is achieved in Phase G: Implementation Governance, where the architecture governance processes and procedures are applied to the implementation projects4.

References:

1: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Chapter 5: Architecture Development Method (ADM)

2: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Chapter 21: Architecture Change Management

3: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Chapter 20: Migration Planning

4: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, Chapter 19: Implementation Governance

The purpose of the Gap Analysis technique is similar to the previous question, but with a focus on the Target Architecture. The technique helps to identify the items that are not included or specified in the Target Architecture, such as capabilities, services, components, standards, or technologies. These items may be essential for achieving the vision and goals of the enterprise, or for addressing the stakeholder concerns and requirements. By identifying the items omitted from the Target Architecture, the technique helps to ensure that the architecture is comprehensive, feasible, and realistic.

Based on the web search results, architecture partitioning is a technique that divides the Enterprise Architecture into smaller and manageable segments or groups, based on various classification criteria, such as subject matter, time, maturity, volatility, etc.12 Architecture partitioning is used to simplify the development and management of the Enterprise Architecture, by reducing complexity, improving governance, enhancing reusability, and increasing alignment and agility12. Therefore, the statement that partitions are used to simplify the management of the Enterprise Architecture is correct.

The other statements are incorrect because:

•Partitions are not equivalent to architecture levels. Architecture levels are different layers of abstraction that describe the Enterprise Architecture from different perspectives, such as strategic, segment, and capability3. Partitions are subsets of architectures that are defined within or across the levels, based on specific criteria1.

•Partitions do not necessarily reflect the organization’s structure. The organization’s structure is one possible criterion for partitioning the architecture, but it is not the only one. Other criteria, such as business function, product, service, geography, etc., can also be used to partition the architecture12.

•Partitions are not defined and assigned to agile Enterprise Architecture teams. Agile Enterprise Architecture is an approach that applies agile principles and practices to the architecture work, such as iterative development, frequent feedback, adaptive planning, and continuous delivery4. Partitions are not a specific feature of agile Enterprise Architecture, but a general technique that can be applied to any architecture method or framework, including TOGAF12.

References: 1: The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Architecture Partitioning 2: TOGAF® Standard — Introduction - Architecture Partitioning 3: [The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2 - Applying the ADM Across the Architecture Landscape] 4: TOGAF® Standard — Introduction - Definitions - The Open Group