Using enterprise architecture to manage change and complexity in your organization requires a method to create, accept, use and maintain enterprise architecture. Not only is it important for architects to know which architectures to create, but also for managers and other stakeholders how to use enterprise architecture to make the right decisions.

TOGAF: open standard for architecture

The Open Group Architecture Framework, TOGAF^TM, is a detailed method and a set of supporting tools for developing enterprise architecture. It describes the process for acceptance, production, use and maintenance of enterprise architectures.

TOGAF consists of the following parts:

• The Architecture Development Method (ADM); the ADM is a step-by-step approach to developing an enterprise architecture, including guidelines and techniques.
• The Architecture Content Framework; the content framework provides a model of architectural work products, like deliverables, artifacts and building blocks.
• The Enterprise Continuum; the enterprise continuum provides a model for structuring a virtual repository en provides methods for classifying architecture and solution artifacts.
• Reference models; TOGAF provides two reference models for possible inclusion in the enterprise continuum, the technical reference model and the integrated information infrastructure model.
• The Architecture Capability Framework; the capability framework is a set of resources, guidelines and templates to help an architect establish an architecture practice within an organization.

TOGAF is used worldwide by numerous architects to design, evaluate, and build the right architecture for their organization. TOGAF is an open standard, managed by The Open Group (see www.opengroup.org/architecture), and can be downloaded here.

TOGAF and ArchiMate

TOGAF and ArchiMate form a powerful combination for your enterprise architecture uses! TOGAF ensures that the processes and governance are in place, whereas ArchiMate enables concrete and practical modeling and analysis. With a combined TOGAF and ArchiMate certified tool, you have the right instruments for successful architecture implementation.

Support for TOGAF

BiZZdesign provides several training courses on TOGAF, including certification for TOGAF via The Open Group.

The tool BiZZdesign Architect is an easy to use and powerful tool for enterprise architecture, supporting TOGAF, and certified by The Open Group as TOGAF-supporting tool.