Chapter 1 -- Enterprise Architecture

Chapter 1

About This Chapter

The tasks involved with today's enterprise information technology (IT) work require an enterprise architecture. In this chapter, we examine the need for application and infrastructure guidance at an enterprise level. We begin by suggesting that systems be implemented with an architecture-first process. Then we introduce the Microsoft Solutions Framework (MSF). We move on to examine the MSF Enterprise Architecture Model and its Business, Application, Information, and Technology Perspectives. We also point out that the four primary goals of an enterprise architecture are that it be integrated, iterative, actionable, and prioritized. Finally, we discuss how to begin the enterprise architecture process and continue to deliver systems and applications while the architecture process is underway.

The principles and guidelines we provide in this chapter are based on our own experience with the creation of application architectures and the implementation of enterprise applications, together with Microsoft Solutions Framework materials.

Upon completion, you will be able to:

• Describe the merits of architecture-first designs.
• Describe the importance of architecture to IT and application success.
• Describe the four perspectives that make up the MSF Enterprise Architecture Model.
• List the elements of each perspective.
• Describe the benefits of a planned enterprise architecture.