Title: Defining the term "Business Architecture" | BAInstitute.org
Headings: Defining the term "Business Architecture"
Defining the term "Business Architecture"
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Content: This might suffice as a definition in casual conversations and discussions as it is easy to understand. However, many will prefer a more formal definition of Business Architecture and require it in the context of an Enterprise Architecture (EA) framework. Therefore a more comprehensive and formal definition is required. In order to understand the complexity of a typical business, an organizing principle or internal structure for its components is required. Many will initially assume this organizing principle is a business function, such as web ordering or accounts receivable. But, the business function as an organizing principle is unsuitable as its limited view impedes analysis of enterprise results. Describing the Business Architecture in terms of its business functions will yield results similar to the children’s story of the “blind men describing the elephant.” Business functions are usually classifications or categories of processes and from the enterprise perspective; sometimes their integration is poorly understood. Referring back to the construction “architecture” metaphor, the blueprint is defined by the architect, and understood by the builders and future homeowners.