The Challenges and Benefits of Implementing an
Enterprise Architecture Framework in IT
Companies
Esther I. Obiogwu
Department of Innovation Technology Management.
Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University “LETI”
Saint Petersburg, Russia
eobiogvu@stud.etu.ru
Abstract— Enterprise architecture (EA) is a critical aspect
of managing and aligning IT with the overall business strategy.
However, implementing an EA framework in IT companies
can be challenging and time-consuming. This paper discusses
the challenges and benefits of implementing an EA framework
in IT companies. The challenges include the complexity of the
EA framework, the need for a dedicated EA team, and the
need for cultural change within the organization. On the other
hand, the benefits of implementing an EA framework include
improved alignment of IT with business objectives, improved
communication and collaboration within the organization, and
increased agility and adaptability to changing business needs.
The paper also explores the best practices for creating and
maintaining an EA framework in an IT organization and the
role of EA in digital transformation and innovation. The paper
concludes by emphasizing the kind of framework that is most
suitable for an IT company taking into consideration the
conditions of digital transformation.
Keywords—Enterprise Architecture, Enterprise Architecture
Framework, EA, EAF, EA problems, EA challenges, EA
benefits, EA for IT, EA implementation.
I. INTRODUCTION
Enterprise architecture (EA) is a critical aspect of
managing and aligning IT with the overall business strategy
[1]. It provides a holistic view of an organization's IT
infrastructure, applications, and processes, and helps to
ensure that they are aligned with the organization's goals and
objectives. However, implementing an EA framework in IT
companies can be challenging and time-consuming.
One of the major challenges of implementing an EA
framework is the complexity of the framework itself [2]. EA
frameworks such as TOGAF, Zachman Framework, and
FEAF require a significant amount of knowledge and
experience to implement effectively [5]. This can make it
difficult for organizations to establish a dedicated EA team
with the necessary skills and experience.
Another challenge is the need for cultural change within
the organization. Implementing an EA framework requires a
shift in mindset and a change in the way IT is managed [3].
This can be difficult to achieve, especially in larger
organizations with established processes and ways of
working.
Despite the challenges, there are many benefits to
implementing an EA framework in IT companies. One of the
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most significant benefits is improved alignment of IT with
business objectives. An EA framework helps to ensure that
IT investments are aligned with the organization's goals and
objectives, reducing the risk of IT projects that do not deliver
value to the business.
Another benefit is improved communication and
collaboration within the organization [1]. An EA framework
provides a common language and understanding of the
organization's IT infrastructure, applications, and processes,
which helps to improve communication and collaboration
between IT and other departments.
Furthermore, implementing an EA framework can
increase agility and adaptability to changing business needs.
An EA framework enables organizations to easily identify
and respond to changes in the business environment, such as
the adoption of new technologies or changes in regulations.
Additionally, implementing an EA framework can help
organizations with digital transformation and innovation. An
EA framework provides a clear understanding of the
organization's IT capabilities and limitations, which can help
identify opportunities for digital transformation and
innovation [4].
The best practices for creating and maintaining an EA
framework in an IT organization include having a dedicated
EA team, creating a culture of collaboration, and having a
clear understanding of the organization's goals and
objectives. The role of EA in digital transformation and
innovation is also an important consideration. The long-term
success of an organization depends on having an effective
EA framework in place.
REFERENCES
[1] Buchanan RD, Soley RM. Aligning enterprise architecture and IT
investments with corporate goals. OMG Whitepaper, Object
Management Group, Needham, 2002.
[2] Lucke C, Krell S, Lechner U. Critical issues in enterprise
architecting–a literature review. 2010.
[3] Ross JW, Weill P, Robertson D. Enterprise architecture as strategy:
Creating a foundation for business execution: Harvard Business Press.
2006.
[4] Simon D, Fischbach K, Schoder D. An exploration of enterprise
architecture research. Communications of the Association for
Information Systems. 2013.
[5] Schekkerman J. How to survive in the jungle of enterprise
architecture frameworks: Creating orchoosing an enterprise
architecture framework Trafford Publishing, 2004.
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