Understanding Business Context


As a part of the EA journey many different processes, methods and tools have been developed. One of the tools that was created was a matrix that illustrates the common requirements vision. This document encompasses four crucial things- business strategies of the enterprise, environmental factor impacts on the strategies, implications of the strategies and environmental factors on business process, information and technologies (see fig. 1 below). Bringing these vital pieces of information together in a format that allows for plan weaknesses to be seen prior to beginning implementation improves the likelihood of success. All components must be present in the array and be able to function without reducing any other components value or functionality within the matrix.

 In some organizations no matrix is made. The decision on what stakeholders to bring into the EA implementation process is based upon what a handful of people in leadership decisions determine to be appropriate. This puts the organization at a distinct disadvantage going into their EA journey. Typically possible issues with compatibility are able to be identified during the matrix completion. There will be much duplicated work and time lost when choosing to go this route. 

 Putting things into context prior to moving forward with an EA implementation is not required, but it might as well be viewed as a necessary function.
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Fig. 1 Business Anchor Model
Source: https://www.slideshare.net/craigrmartin/digital-disruption-and

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