SAP Enterprise Architecture Framework: An easier path to EA

In transformation projects, many companies face the challenge of finding the right starting point for defining and developing an enterprise architecture (EA). They are uncertain where and how to best start the process of building a sustainable enterprise architecture. There are often no guidelines for EA implementation and governance. In addition, there is a lack of a big-picture vision for the enterprise architecture, as well as the right tools and best practices to implement it.

The frequently inadequate documentation of IT environments, systems, and processes in companies is also problematic. Often, employees are the only ones who have the appropriate information and experience. If they leave the company, valuable knowledge is lost – a risk that is exacerbated by the shortage of skilled workers. Especially in the case of complex IT environments, a lack of resources, know-how, and insufficient skills have a negative impact on digital transformation.

To make matters worse, many transformation projects are driven by IT rather than business, so they do not always adequately address business needs. This can mean that transformation is accomplished technologically, but it does not deliver the desired business value, something that underscores the need for a structured and future-oriented enterprise architecture.

Greater agility and sustainability with enterprise architecture

But what exactly is enterprise architecture? In its The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF), the Open Group consortium defines “architecture” as the structure of components and their relationships to each other, as well as the principles and guidelines that govern their design and development. Enterprise architecture is a strategic approach that helps companies align their IT systems and business processes and attune them to one another. This creates a comprehensive framework that addresses both current and future requirements.

Structured technology and process alignment helps companies plan and leverage IT investments efficiently, and scale and adapt technologies to meet their business needs. In addition, an enterprise architecture connects business and IT and ensures a structured approach to the planning and implementation of transformation projects. This, in turn, promotes innovation and makes business processes more efficient, agile, and sustainable.

The SAP Enterprise Architecture Framework provides orientation

Defining enterprise architecture is a complex task. This is where frameworks come into play. They provide companies with guidelines and methodologies and proven processes, templates, and tools for creating an EA. This is exactly what the SAP Enterprise Architecture Framework does, providing SAP customers with a practical approach to EA development. It builds on proven TOGAF standards and adds tools and reference content for SAP-specific business requirements.

The framework consists of five building blocks:

1. Methodology
Based on TOGAF and other industry standards, the framework provides a proven methodology that builds on architecture domains, elements of meta-models, and software artifacts.

2. Reference architecture content

SAP provides comprehensive content such as the SAP Reference Business Architecture; it helps companies align their business processes with SAP solutions.

3. Tools
Tools such as SAP Signavio, SAP Cloud ALM, and SAP LeanIX support the entire transformation process from analysis to implementation.

4. Practice
Here the focus is on EA implementation and operation within the company by applying the methodology and introducing governance and change management processes.

5. Services
Standardized EA Services support transformation projects by applying the methodology and leveraging EA tools and reference architecture content.

With its various components, the framework makes it easier for companies to develop an enterprise architecture that is aligned with their strategic goals.

Integration as a key factor for future-oriented EA

In our experience, integration is one of the most important keys to successful enterprise architecture. In our webinar “Future-proof SAP Enterprise Architecture: Strategic Integration with SAP ISA-M” we will show you how companies can use the SAP Integration Solution Advisory Methodology (ISA-M) and the Integration Assessment Capability of the SAP Integration Suite on the SAP Business Technology Platform to achieve their transformation goals efficiently.

A key aspect of this is the development of a strategic integration architecture with SAP ISA-M to address both current and future challenges.