Last modified: 2011-10-03
Abstract
Enterprise architecture (EA) is seen as a key enabler for driving information technology (IT) cost down and speed benefit delivery, so that the right solutions are delivered faster and cheaper [6]. However, EA can no longer focus on cost reduction and IT rationalization, but must shift to delivering strategic business value [13]. Many EA teams still use IT architecture as a term synonymous with EA. This misperception limits EA scope and, thus, possible business outcomes and EA value [16]. By producing an EA, architects are providing a tool for identifying opportunities to improve the enterprise, in a manner that more effectively and efficiently pursues its purpose. In this paper we examine means for enterprise architecture improvement, in order to help the enterprise architecture team produce a compelling value proposition. By focusing on non-functional requirements of the software applications within EA description and appliance, we investigate its impact on EA. We find them as one of key artifacts of EA for complex business technology initiatives support in achieving enterprise strategic goals.