Introduction to Solution Architecture Book

Paperback - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1797567616
Kindle - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P2NCFDQ

Introduction to Solution Architecture
Page 2 of 538
Copyright © 2019 Alan McSweeney
All rights reserved.
ISBN-13: 9781797567617

Page 3 of 538
Contents
Chapter 1. Introduction, Purpose and Scope .................................................................................17
1.1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................................................17
1.2 Who This Book Is Aimed At...........................................................................................................................................................19
1.3 Terminology......................................................................................................................................................................................20
1.4 Structure and Contents of This Book ............................................................................................................................................20
1.5 Checklists...........................................................................................................................................................................................23
Chapter 2. Solution Architecture and Solution Design..................................................................26
2.1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................................................26
2.2 Solution Architecture – A Lesson From History .........................................................................................................................30
2.3 Evolution of Solution Architecture and Solution Architect Role..............................................................................................31
2.4 What Is a Solution?...........................................................................................................................................................................34
2.4.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................................................................................................................34
2.4.2 Scope of Complete Solution ............................................................................................................................................................................34
2.4.3 Solutions and Organisation Change ..............................................................................................................................................................41
2.4.4 Solution Components and Organisation Change........................................................................................................................................42
2.4.5 Solution Decomposition ..................................................................................................................................................................................43
2.4.6 Solution Cost .....................................................................................................................................................................................................45
2.4.7 Solution Options, Boundaries and Constraints............................................................................................................................................49
2.5 Getting the Solution Design Right .................................................................................................................................................51
2.6 The Solution Delivery Process in Context ....................................................................................................................................51
Chapter 3. Business Strategy, Architecture Strategy and Solution Design and Delivery..............58
3.1 Why Solutions Fail ...........................................................................................................................................................................58
3.1.1 The Business Value of Solution Architecture...............................................................................................................................................72
3.2 Solution Architecture and Risk Management ..............................................................................................................................72
3.3 Architecture Disciplines, Context and Interactions ....................................................................................................................76
3.3.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................................................................................................................76
3.3.2 Run the Business and Change the Business..................................................................................................................................................81
3.3.3 IT Architecture Principles ...............................................................................................................................................................................82
3.3.4 Problems with IT Architecture Operation....................................................................................................................................................84
3.3.5 Shadow IT ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................87
Chapter 4. Solution Architecture Engagement and the Solution Design Process.........................92
4.1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................................................92
4.2 Problem and Solution Knowledge and Complexity ....................................................................................................................96
4.2.1 Problem and Solution Knowledge..................................................................................................................................................................96
4.2.2 Solution Complexity.......................................................................................................................................................................................101
4.3 Solution Design, Delivery and Operation Context....................................................................................................................113
4.4 Solution Architecture Interface with the Business Analysis Function, Requirements Gathering and Process Analysis.125
4.4.1 Requirements Engineering............................................................................................................................................................................130
4.4.2 Business Processes ..........................................................................................................................................................................................135
4.4.2.1 Business Process Modelling Notation (BPMN).................................................................................................................................152
4.5 Solution Architecture Engagement Process................................................................................................................................159
4.6 Solution Architecture Engagements ............................................................................................................................................162

Page 4 of 538
4.6.1 Business Engagement.....................................................................................................................................................................................162
4.6.1.1 Introduction............................................................................................................................................................................................162
4.6.1.2 Workshops ..............................................................................................................................................................................................167
4.6.1.3 High Level Activities and Their Logical Sequence............................................................................................................................168
4.6.1.4 Business Engagement Activity 0. Define And Agree Engagement Scope......................................................................................169
4.6.1.4.1 Step 0.1 Preparation and Planning..............................................................................................................................................170
4.6.1.4.2 Step 0.2 Mobilise and Present Approach to Sponsorship, Stakeholder and Core Project Team.......................................171
4.6.1.4.3 Step 0.3 Review Any Previous Work, if Any .............................................................................................................................171
4.6.1.4.4 Step 0.4 Perform Initial Informal Information Gathering ......................................................................................................172
4.6.1.4.5 Step 0.5 Review Information and Define Scope of Introductory Workshop(s)...................................................................172
4.6.1.4.6 Step 0.6 Define Team and Facilities Required...........................................................................................................................173
4.6.1.4.7 Step 0.7 Create Table of Contents (Scope) of Engagement Deliverable................................................................................174
4.6.1.4.8 Step 0.8 Conduct Introductory Workshop(s) ...........................................................................................................................175
4.6.1.4.9 Step 0.9 Update Scope of Deliverables........................................................................................................................................175
4.6.1.5 Business Engagement Activity 1. Information Collection And Assessment.................................................................................176
4.6.1.5.1 Step 1.1 Current Business Review...............................................................................................................................................176
4.6.1.5.2 Step 1.2 Assess Customer (Or External Party) Perceptions....................................................................................................178
4.6.1.5.3 Step 1.3 Review Current Industry Best Practices And Technology Changes.......................................................................179
4.6.1.5.4 Step 1.4 Analyse Current Business Systems...............................................................................................................................181
4.6.1.5.5 Step 1.5 Analyse Available Solutions And Products.................................................................................................................183
4.6.1.6 Business Engagement Activity 2. Define Vision, Business Principles And System Principles...................................................184
4.6.1.6.1 Step 2.1 Define Vision For Functional Business Area .............................................................................................................184
4.6.1.6.2 Step 2.2 Describe Functional Business Area Principles, Assumptions and Limitations.....................................................188
4.6.1.6.3 Step 2.3 Describe System Principles, Assumptions and Limitations.....................................................................................189
4.6.1.7 Business Engagement Activity 3. Document Business Processes, Entity Model, Capacity Planning And Solution Approach
...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................191
4.6.1.7.1 Step 3.1 Define And Document Business Processes.................................................................................................................192
4.6.1.7.2 Step 3.2 Create Conceptual Entity Model..................................................................................................................................198
4.6.1.7.3 Step 3.3 Gather Capacity Planning Information.......................................................................................................................198
4.6.1.7.4 Step 3.4 Define Solution And System Approach ......................................................................................................................200
4.6.1.7.5 Step 3.5 Develop And Validate Feasibility Prototype(s)..........................................................................................................206
4.6.1.8 Business Engagement Activity 4. Document Solutions, Applications And Functions................................................................206
4.6.1.8.1 Step 4.1 Document Systems, Applications And Functions.....................................................................................................206
4.6.1.9 Business Engagement Activity 5. Define Organisation, Infrastructure And Data.......................................................................209
4.6.1.9.1 Step 5.1 Define Organisation And Resource Requirements And Structure.........................................................................209
4.6.1.9.2 Step 5.2 Define Application And Data Organisation...............................................................................................................210
4.6.1.9.3 Step 5.3 Define Infrastructure Requirements............................................................................................................................212
4.6.1.10 Business Engagement Activity 6. Conduct Solution And Product Evaluation And Selection.................................................213
4.6.1.10.1 Step 6.1 Conduct Solution And Product Evaluation And Selection....................................................................................214
4.6.1.11 Business Engagement Activity 7. Design Model Architecture......................................................................................................222
4.6.1.11.1 Step 7.1 Design Infrastructure Model Architecture...............................................................................................................222
4.6.1.12 Business Engagement Activity 8. Consolidate, Finalise And Review Design .............................................................................225
4.6.1.12.1 Step 8.1 Finalise Application Architecture..............................................................................................................................226
4.6.1.12.2 Step 8.2 Define Benefits And Costs...........................................................................................................................................226
4.6.1.12.3 Step 8.3 Create High Level Phased Delivery Plan...................................................................................................................226
4.6.1.12.4 Step 8.4 Review And Agree Business Architecture Engagement .........................................................................................227
4.6.2 Solution Design Process.................................................................................................................................................................................227
4.6.3 Solution Design Engagement Types ............................................................................................................................................................235
4.6.4 Early Engagement...........................................................................................................................................................................................236
4.6.4.1 Introduction............................................................................................................................................................................................236
4.6.4.2 What Is A Problem?...............................................................................................................................................................................241
4.6.4.3 Early Engagement Aspects....................................................................................................................................................................243
4.6.4.4 Early Engagement Questions ...............................................................................................................................................................246
4.6.4.5 Building Activity Model Stream ..........................................................................................................................................................247
4.6.4.6 Rich Pictures ...........................................................................................................................................................................................250
4.6.4.7 Resolution Options ................................................................................................................................................................................252
4.6.4.8 Problem Resolution and Organisation Change.................................................................................................................................254
4.6.4.9 Bringing It All Together And Presenting The Results......................................................................................................................257
4.6.5 Rapid Solution Design Option Engagement ..............................................................................................................................................258
4.6.5.1 Introduction............................................................................................................................................................................................259
4.6.5.2 Step 1 – Identify New and Impacted Existing Business Processes..................................................................................................261
4.6.5.3 Step 2 – Identify Key Functions...........................................................................................................................................................262

Page 5 of 538
4.6.5.4 Step 3 – Identify Actors .........................................................................................................................................................................265
4.6.5.5 Step 4 – Identify New and Existing Applications ..............................................................................................................................266
4.6.5.6 Step 5 – Identify Data Integrations, Transfers and Exchanges........................................................................................................267
4.6.5.7 Step 6 – Identify Actor and Application Interactions.......................................................................................................................269
4.6.5.8 Step 7 – Identify Actor/Actor Interactions.........................................................................................................................................270
4.6.5.9 Steps 1-7 – Solution on a Page..............................................................................................................................................................271
4.6.5.10 Steps 8 and 9 – Identify Data Sets, Data Impacts and Data Movements .....................................................................................271
4.6.5.11 Step 10 – Create Inventory of Solution Usage Journeys.................................................................................................................273
4.6.5.12 Summary................................................................................................................................................................................................276
4.6.6 Structured Solution Design Engagement ....................................................................................................................................................277
4.6.6.1 Introduction............................................................................................................................................................................................277
4.6.6.2 Structured Solution Design Approach and TOGAF.........................................................................................................................280
4.6.6.3 Business and Process View....................................................................................................................................................................283
4.6.6.3.1 Adapting TOGAF Business Phase to the Business and Process View...................................................................................286
4.6.6.4 Functional View......................................................................................................................................................................................288
4.6.6.4.1 Adapting TOGAF Information Systems Architecture Phase to the Functional View........................................................289
4.6.6.5 Data View ................................................................................................................................................................................................292
4.6.6.5.1 Adapting TOGAF Information Systems Architecture Phase to the Data View...................................................................294
4.6.6.6 Technical View........................................................................................................................................................................................296
4.6.6.6.1 Adapting TOGAF Technology Architecture Phase to the Technical View..........................................................................298
4.6.6.7 Implementation View............................................................................................................................................................................301
4.6.6.7.1 Adapting TOGAF Technology Architecture Phase to the Implementation View...............................................................303
4.6.6.8 Management and Operations View.....................................................................................................................................................305
4.6.6.8.1 Adapting TOGAF Technology Architecture Phase to the Management and Operations View .......................................309
4.7 Solution Architecture and Solution Experience and Usability ................................................................................................312
4.8 Data Architectural Aspects of Solution Architecture................................................................................................................322
4.8.1 Data Management Book of Knowledge (DMBOK) Data Architecture Framework.............................................................................322
4.8.2 Solution Data Landscape ...............................................................................................................................................................................327
4.8.3 Solution Data Quality.....................................................................................................................................................................................337
4.8.4 Data Lifecycle...................................................................................................................................................................................................338
4.8.5 Data Integration..............................................................................................................................................................................................340
4.8.6 Data Audit and Data Profiling......................................................................................................................................................................352
4.8.6.1 Data Landscape View.............................................................................................................................................................................352
4.8.6.2 Data Supply Chain View .......................................................................................................................................................................352
4.8.6.3 Data Model View....................................................................................................................................................................................352
4.8.6.4 Data Lifecycle View................................................................................................................................................................................353
4.8.6.5 Solution Data Audit Approach.............................................................................................................................................................353
4.9 Security and Privacy.......................................................................................................................................................................353
4.9.1 Solution Security.............................................................................................................................................................................................353
4.9.2 Solution Data Privacy.....................................................................................................................................................................................364
4.9.2.1 Overview..................................................................................................................................................................................................364
4.9.2.2 Personal Information.............................................................................................................................................................................365
4.9.2.3 Personal Data Related Processes and Impact on Solution Design..................................................................................................367
4.9.2.4 GDPR Related Metadata........................................................................................................................................................................370
4.9.2.5 Solution Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) .....................................................................................................................371
4.9.2.6 Data Pseudonymisation.........................................................................................................................................................................372
4.9.3 Data and Hosted Applications and XaaS/Cloud-Based Services.............................................................................................................375
4.10 Solution Architecture and Design Artefacts.............................................................................................................................378
4.11 Solution Assessment and Review ...............................................................................................................................................382
4.11.1 Solution Benefits Review..............................................................................................................................................................................382
4.11.2 Solution Design Review ...............................................................................................................................................................................384
4.11.3 Solution Architectural Review ....................................................................................................................................................................387
4.11.4 Solution Implementability Review.............................................................................................................................................................387
Chapter 5. Solution Architecture and Digital Transformation....................................................389
5.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................................................389
5.2 Digital Strategy in Business and Information Technology Context........................................................................................394

Page 6 of 538
5.3 Digital Target Architecture...........................................................................................................................................................397
5.4 Digital and Solution Architecture................................................................................................................................................413
5.4.1 Digital Solution Integration ..........................................................................................................................................................................414
5.4.2 Range of Solutions Within Digital Transformation..................................................................................................................................415
5.4.3 Digital Design Principles...............................................................................................................................................................................416
5.4.4 Digital Solution Architecture Interactions With Other Architecture Functions..................................................................................418
Chapter 6. Agile Solution Design and Delivery............................................................................420
6.1 Introduction....................................................................................................................................................................................420
6.2 Agile Approach to Solution Delivery ..........................................................................................................................................421
6.3 Using Agile Solution Delivery Effectively...................................................................................................................................424
6.4 Agile Solution Delivery Pillar One - Solution Delivery Selection and Validation................................................................425
6.5 Agile Solution Delivery Pillar Two - Control Components of Agile Process........................................................................429
6.6 Agile Solution Delivery Pillar Three - Agile Tools and Techniques.......................................................................................432
6.7 Agile Solution Delivery Pillar Four - Agile Solution Delivery Phases ....................................................................................433
6.7.1 Agile Solution Delivery Phase 1 - Pre-Project Phase.................................................................................................................................435
6.7.2 Agile Solution Delivery Phase 2 - Feasibility Analysis and Study Phase................................................................................................436
6.7.3 Agile Solution Delivery Phase 3 - Business Study Phase ..........................................................................................................................437
6.7.4 Agile Solution Delivery Phase 4 - Functional Model Iteration Phase.....................................................................................................439
6.7.5 Agile Solution Delivery Phase 5 - Design and Build Iteration Phase......................................................................................................440
6.7.6 Agile Solution Delivery Phase 6 - Implementation Phase........................................................................................................................442
6.7.7 Agile Solution Delivery Phase 7 - Post-Project Phase...............................................................................................................................443
Chapter 7. Solution Architecture and Solution Acquisition........................................................445
7.1 Introduction....................................................................................................................................................................................445
7.1.1 Service Planning and Initiation/Transfer Approach.................................................................................................................................450
7.1.1.1 Activities for Initiation/Transition and Service Delivery Phases....................................................................................................452
7.1.1.2 Activities for Ongoing Phases ..............................................................................................................................................................457
7.1.2 Supplier Assessment and Validation ...........................................................................................................................................................464
Chapter 8. The Solution Architecture Function...........................................................................470
8.1 Introduction....................................................................................................................................................................................470
8.2 Solution Architecture Skills, Capabilities and Experience .......................................................................................................470
8.2.1 Technical Skills................................................................................................................................................................................................472
8.2.2 Analytical Thinking and Resolution Identification...................................................................................................................................474
8.2.3 Behavioural Characteristics...........................................................................................................................................................................476
8.2.4 Business Knowledge.......................................................................................................................................................................................478
8.2.5 Collaboration Skills ........................................................................................................................................................................................481
8.2.6 Communication Skills....................................................................................................................................................................................483
8.2.7 Tools and Techniques....................................................................................................................................................................................484
8.3 Solution Architecture Function ...................................................................................................................................................485
8.3.1 Solution Architecture Function Context ....................................................................................................................................................485
8.3.2 Solution Architecture Function Structure..................................................................................................................................................487
8.3.3 Solution Architecture Centre of Excellence................................................................................................................................................490
8.3.4 Some Solution Architecture Function Issues .............................................................................................................................................502
8.3.4.1 Conway’s Law .........................................................................................................................................................................................503
8.3.4.2 Cognitive Diversity ................................................................................................................................................................................504
8.3.5 Solution Architecture Tools..........................................................................................................................................................................509
8.3.5.1 Solution Architecture Design Tools....................................................................................................................................................510
8.3.5.1.1 Structured Systems Analysis and Design Methodology (SSADM)........................................................................................514
8.3.5.1.1.1 Solution Survey and Feasibility Study................................................................................................................................515
8.3.5.1.1.2 Structured Analysis...............................................................................................................................................................516
8.3.5.1.1.3 Structured Design..................................................................................................................................................................516
8.3.5.1.1.4 Infrastructure Configuration Study....................................................................................................................................516

Page 7 of 538
8.3.5.1.1.5 Solution Construction and Implementation.....................................................................................................................516
8.3.5.1.1.6 Solution Operation and Maintenance................................................................................................................................516
8.3.5.1.2 Archimate........................................................................................................................................................................................516
8.3.5.2 IT Architecture Frameworks, Methodologies and Description Languages...................................................................................526
Chapter 9. Solution Architecture and Innovation........................................................................532

Page 8 of 538
List of Tables
Table 1 – Solution Architecture-Related Checklists Contained in the Book............................................................................................................... 25
Table 2 – Overlapping Solution Architecture Capabilities and Areas of Solution Involvement and Knowledge ................................................. 28
Table 3 – Vitruvius’ Architecture Principles .................................................................................................................................................................... 31
Table 4 – Components of Complete Solution .................................................................................................................................................................. 36
Table 5 – Mapping Solution Components to Business Change Domains ................................................................................................................... 43
Table 6 – Sources of Good and Poor Solution Delivery Estimates................................................................................................................................ 49
Table 7 – Solution Design Constraints.............................................................................................................................................................................. 50
Table 8 – High-Level Steps of Individual Discipline Solution Delivery Journeys ...................................................................................................... 54
Table 9 – Field of Solution Delivery Project Success and Failure.................................................................................................................................. 62
Table 10 – Standish Group CHAOS Report Project Outcome Results 1994-2015..................................................................................................... 64
Table 11 – Causes of Project Failure from What went wrong? Unsuccessful information technology projects ................................................... 65
Table 12 – Standish Group Project Success Factors Over Time.................................................................................................................................... 66
Table 13 – Budzier and Flyvbjerg Project Organisational Challenges.......................................................................................................................... 67
Table 14 – Solution Architecture Contribution to the Standish Group Solution Delivery Success Factors........................................................... 68
Table 15 – Solution Architecture Contribution to Budzier and Flyvbjerg Organisational Challenges................................................................... 69
Table 16 – Errors in End User Computing Applications Leading to Financial Losses.............................................................................................. 91
Table 17 – Solution Complexity Factors .........................................................................................................................................................................107
Table 18 – Sample Solution Complexity Scores.............................................................................................................................................................110
Table 19 – Complexity Scores and Resource Uplifts.....................................................................................................................................................111
Table 20 – Sample Solution Complexity Dashboard Elements ...................................................................................................................................113
Table 21 – Set of Solution Delivery Artefacts.................................................................................................................................................................123
Table 22 – Lessons Learned from Large Solutions Implementations.........................................................................................................................138
Table 23 – Applying Waste Elimination Principles to Process Optimisation...........................................................................................................140
Table 24 – Primary and Support Processes Example....................................................................................................................................................147
Table 25 – Business Process Analysis High-Level Steps ...............................................................................................................................................148
Table 26 – Process Analysis Information Structure ......................................................................................................................................................149
Table 27 – Business Process Design Success Factors.....................................................................................................................................................150
Table 28 – Business Process Design Standards and Approaches ................................................................................................................................152
Table 29 – BPMN Flow Objects........................................................................................................................................................................................155
Table 30 – BPMN Graphics for Combinations of Task Type and Loop Type ..........................................................................................................156
Table 31 – BPMN Graphics for Sub-Processes ..............................................................................................................................................................157
Table 32 – BPMN Event Modifications...........................................................................................................................................................................158
Table 33 – BPMN Gateway Symbols ...............................................................................................................................................................................158
Table 34 – BPMN Data Symbols ......................................................................................................................................................................................159
Table 35 – Mapping Business Need to Engagement Types..........................................................................................................................................161
Table 36 – Architecture Engagement Extended Factors...............................................................................................................................................166
Table 37 – Introductory Workshop Topics ....................................................................................................................................................................173
Table 38 – Sample Table of Contents for Architecture Engagement Main Deliverable..........................................................................................175
Table 39 – Vision Development Factors .........................................................................................................................................................................186
Table 40 – Inventory of Interfaces, Exchanges and Transfers .....................................................................................................................................208
Table 41 – High Level Steps of Product/Service Evaluation And Selection Process ................................................................................................222
Table 42 – Generalised Solution Design Process Steps.................................................................................................................................................229
Table 43 – Early Engagement Aspect Sample Questions..............................................................................................................................................246
Table 44 – Activity Model Details....................................................................................................................................................................................249
Table 45 – Elements of a Rich Picture .............................................................................................................................................................................251
Table 46 – Rapid Solution Design Core and Extended Design Elements ..................................................................................................................261
Table 47 – Sample Process and Function Breakdown – Buy a Product or Service...................................................................................................265
Table 48 – List of System Interactions.............................................................................................................................................................................268
Table 49 – Actor System Interactions..............................................................................................................................................................................269
Table 50 – Actor Actor Interactions ................................................................................................................................................................................270
Table 51 – Data Exchanges Between Systems.................................................................................................................................................................273
Table 52 – Mapping TOGAF Architecture Development Method (ADM) Steps to Solution Design ..................................................................282
Table 53 – Business and Process View Information Structure....................................................................................................................................286
Table 54 – Adapting TOGAF Business Phase to the Business and Process View.....................................................................................................288
Table 55 – Functional View Information Structure......................................................................................................................................................289
Table 56 – Adapting TOGAF Business Phase to the Functional View.......................................................................................................................292
Table 57 – Data View Information Structure.................................................................................................................................................................293
Table 58 – Adapting TOGAF Business Phase to the Data View .................................................................................................................................296
Table 59 – Technical View Information Structure........................................................................................................................................................298
Table 60 – Adapting TOGAF Business Phase to the Technical View.........................................................................................................................301

Page 9 of 538
Table 61 – Implementation View Information Structure.............................................................................................................................................303
Table 62 – Adapting TOGAF Business Phase to the Implementation View .............................................................................................................305
Table 63 – Management and Operations View Information Structure......................................................................................................................308
Table 64 – Adapting TOGAF Business Phase to the Management and Operations View......................................................................................312
Table 65 – Data Management Book of Knowledge (DMBOK) Subject Areas...........................................................................................................325
Table 66 – Solution Design Data Completeness Checks...............................................................................................................................................326
Table 67 – Data Management Book of Knowledge (DMBOK) Subject Areas Solution Design Considerations.................................................327
Table 68 – Components of Conceptual Solution Design Data Landscape.................................................................................................................333
Table 69 – Solution Data Landscape Component Linkages.........................................................................................................................................335
Table 70 – Data Integration Patterns ...............................................................................................................................................................................347
Table 71 – Sample Extended Integration Specifications...............................................................................................................................................349
Table 72 – Examples of Personal Data.............................................................................................................................................................................367
Table 73 – GDPR Processes and Their Impact on Solution Design............................................................................................................................370
Table 74 – Personal Data Metadata..................................................................................................................................................................................370
Table 75 – ISO/IEC 25010 Quality Model Applied to Solution Design Reviews......................................................................................................387
Table 76 – Fallacies of Distributed Computing Applied to Digital Solutions ...........................................................................................................394
Table 77 – Linkages Between Components of Digital Target Architecture...............................................................................................................402
Table 78 – Level 2 Elements of Level 1 Component Group External Party Interaction Zones, Channels and Facilities....................................403
Table 79 – Level 2 Elements of Level 1 Component Group Security, Identity, Access and Profile Management...............................................404
Table 80 – Level 2 Elements of Level 1 Component Group Digital Specific Applications and Tools ...................................................................406
Table 81 – Level 2 Elements of Level 1 Component Group Responsive Infrastructure...........................................................................................407
Table 82 – Level 2 Elements of Level 1 Component Internal Interaction Management..........................................................................................407
Table 83 – Level 2 Elements of Level 1 Component Integration.................................................................................................................................408
Table 84 – Level 2 Elements of Level 1 Component Operational and Business Systems.........................................................................................409
Table 85 – Level 2 Elements of Level 1 Component Applications Delivery and Management Tools and Frameworks.....................................411
Table 86 – Level 2 Elements of Level 1 Component System Development, Deployment and Management .......................................................413
Table 87 – Digital Solution Common Characteristics...................................................................................................................................................418
Table 88 – Pillars of Generalised Approach to Agile Iterative Solution Delivery .....................................................................................................425
Table 89 – Solutions and Projects When to Use Agile..................................................................................................................................................427
Table 90 – Key Principles of Iterative Agile Approach .................................................................................................................................................429
Table 91 – Agile Solution Delivery Pillar Two - Control Components of Agile Process.........................................................................................432
Table 92 – Agile Solution Delivery Pillar Three - Agile Tools and Techniques........................................................................................................433
Table 93 – Activities During Initiation/Transition and Service Delivery Phases......................................................................................................457
Table 94 – Ongoing Phase Governance Focussed Activities........................................................................................................................................461
Table 95 – Ongoing Phase Competency and Change Focussed Activities.................................................................................................................463
Table 96 – Ongoing Phase Operations Focussed Activities..........................................................................................................................................464
Table 97 – Service Organisation Controls.......................................................................................................................................................................469
Table 98 – Solution Architect Technical Skills...............................................................................................................................................................474
Table 99 – Solution Architect Analytical Thinking and Resolution Identification Skills........................................................................................476
Table 100 – Solution Architect Behavioural Characteristics........................................................................................................................................478
Table 101 – Solution Architect Business Knowledge ....................................................................................................................................................481
Table 102 – Solution Architect Collaboration Skills......................................................................................................................................................483
Table 103 – Solution Architect Communication Skills.................................................................................................................................................484
Table 104 – Solution Architect Tools and Techniques Skills.......................................................................................................................................485
Table 105 – Applying the Business Function Domain Model to the Solution Architecture Function..................................................................489
Table 106 – SACOE Functions..........................................................................................................................................................................................492
Table 107 – Possible Solution Architecture Maturity Model.......................................................................................................................................494
Table 108 – Knowledge Type and Application Classification......................................................................................................................................495
Table 109 – Knowledge Types Applied to Solution Architecture................................................................................................................................496
Table 110 – Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA) Skill Level and Attribute Matrix..........................................................................497
Table 111 – SFIA Skills Categories and Individual Skills..............................................................................................................................................499
Table 112 – SFIA Skill Levels 4 to 6 Specification for Solution Architecture ............................................................................................................500
Table 113 – SFIA Skill Attributes for Solution Architecture Skill Level 4..................................................................................................................501
Table 116 – Partial List of Solution Architecture Description Languages..................................................................................................................514
Table 117 – Archimate Layers...........................................................................................................................................................................................518
Table 118 – Archimate Strategy Layer Elements............................................................................................................................................................519
Table 119 – Archimate Business Layer Elements...........................................................................................................................................................520
Table 120 – Archimate Application Layer Elements.....................................................................................................................................................521
Table 121 – Archimate Technology Layer Elements .....................................................................................................................................................523
Table 122 – Archimate Physical Layer Elements............................................................................................................................................................523

Page 10 of 538
Table 123 – Archimate Motivation Aspect Elements....................................................................................................................................................524
Table 124 – Enterprise Architecture Frameworks and Languages..............................................................................................................................531
Table 125 – Areas To Look For Innovation....................................................................................................................................................................537

Page 11 of 538
List of Figures
Figure 1 – Solution Architecture Focus of the Book........................................................................................................................................................19
Figure 2 – Summary Structure of this Book......................................................................................................................................................................21
Figure 3 – Overlapping Solution Architecture Capabilities and Areas of Solution Involvement and Knowledge................................................27
Figure 4 – High Level Context of Solution Design ..........................................................................................................................................................29
Figure 5 – Vitruvius’ Architecture Principles...................................................................................................................................................................30
Figure 6 – High-Level Logical Mainframe IT Architecture............................................................................................................................................32
Figure 7 – Scope of Complete Solution..............................................................................................................................................................................37
Figure 8 – Scope of Partial and Incomplete Solution ......................................................................................................................................................38
Figure 9 – Solution Delivery Externalities.........................................................................................................................................................................39
Figure 10 – Omission of Components from Solution Design Scope ............................................................................................................................39
Figure 11 – Convergence of Solution Components to Create Complete Operational Solution...............................................................................40
Figure 12 – Staged Delivery of Solution Components ....................................................................................................................................................40
Figure 13 – Organisation Core Change Domains............................................................................................................................................................41
Figure 14 – Extended Organisation Change Domain .....................................................................................................................................................42
Figure 15 – Solution Components Mapped to Organisation Change Domains .........................................................................................................42
Figure 16 – Solution Component Levels ...........................................................................................................................................................................44
Figure 17 – Sample Level 1 to Level 4 Solution Breakdown...........................................................................................................................................45
Figure 18 – Solution Components Contributing to Solution Delivery and Operation Costs...................................................................................46
Figure 19 – Total Solution Lifetime Costs.........................................................................................................................................................................46
Figure 20 – Solution Acquisition and Lifetime Operating Costs...................................................................................................................................47
Figure 21 – Sample Solution Lifetime Cumulative Cost Profile ....................................................................................................................................47
Figure 22 – Sources of Good and Poor Solution Delivery Estimates............................................................................................................................48
Figure 23 – Solution Design Boundaries...........................................................................................................................................................................49
Figure 24 – Solution Design Constraints...........................................................................................................................................................................50
Figure 25 – Solution Delivery Journey...............................................................................................................................................................................51
Figure 26 – IT Function as a Lens Focussing Business Needs On To Solutions .........................................................................................................52
Figure 27 – Multiple Partially Overlapping Solution Delivery Journeys......................................................................................................................53
Figure 28 – Overall Solution Delivery Journey.................................................................................................................................................................55
Figure 29 – Solution Delivery Failure ................................................................................................................................................................................55
Figure 30 – Information Loss Due to Multiple Handoffs During Solution Delivery .................................................................................................56
Figure 31 – Siloed Operation of Solution Delivery Disciplines .....................................................................................................................................56
Figure 32 – Goal of Solution Delivery – the Right Solution Implemented Successfully............................................................................................59
Figure 33 – Right Solution Delivered Successfully is in the Minority of all Solution Delivery Outcomes..............................................................59
Figure 34 – Field of Solution Delivery Project Success and Failure ..............................................................................................................................61
Figure 35 – Operational Solution Deficit – Degrees of Less for More..........................................................................................................................62
Figure 36 – Standish Group CHAOS Report Project Outcome Results 1994-2015....................................................................................................63
Figure 37 – Factors Affecting Good Solution Delivery Decisions.................................................................................................................................69
Figure 38 – Characteristics of Groupthink........................................................................................................................................................................71
Figure 39 – Scale and Complexity of Product Changes and Enhancements ...............................................................................................................74
Figure 40 – IT Architecture Disciplines.............................................................................................................................................................................76
Figure 41 – IT Architecture Two-Way Contribution to the Business ..........................................................................................................................77
Figure 42 – IT Architecture Discipline Involvement Throughout Solution Portfolio Delivery...............................................................................78
Figure 43 – Interactions Between IT Architecture Disciplines......................................................................................................................................78
Figure 44 – Solution Architecture – Bringing It All Together .......................................................................................................................................79
Figure 45 – Siloed Operation of Information Architecture Disciplines .......................................................................................................................80
Figure 46 – Nesting of Siloed Operations Within Solution Delivery and Within IT Architecture Disciplines .....................................................81
Figure 47 – Balance Between Run the Business and Change the Business Activities.................................................................................................82
Figure 48 – IT Architecture Principles ..............................................................................................................................................................................83
Figure 49 – IT Architecture Failings ..................................................................................................................................................................................84
Figure 50 – IT and Business Relationship Failings ..........................................................................................................................................................86
Figure 51 – Consequences of Failing Business and IT Relationship.............................................................................................................................86
Figure 52 – Growth of Shadow IT......................................................................................................................................................................................87
Figure 53 – Solution Design in an Outline Organisation Framework..........................................................................................................................93
Figure 54 – Organisation Context of Solution Architecture ..........................................................................................................................................94
Figure 55 – Interrelated Strategies – Business Strategy, Overall Organisation IT Strategy and Internal IT Function Strategy...........................96
Figure 56 – Problem and Solution Knowledge in the Solution Design Process..........................................................................................................97
Figure 57 – Problem and Solution Knowledge and Solution Design Complexity......................................................................................................97
Figure 58 – Problem and Solution Knowledge and Solution Design Options ............................................................................................................98
Figure 59 – Options for Problems and Solution Knowledge Options ..........................................................................................................................99
Figure 60 – Problem and Solution Knowns and Unknowns..........................................................................................................................................99

Page 12 of 538
Figure 61 – Maximising the Solution Knowns and Minimising the Unknowns ......................................................................................................100
Figure 62 – Solution Option Definition Steps................................................................................................................................................................100
Figure 63 – Solution Design Complexity Heatmap.......................................................................................................................................................101
Figure 64 – The Waterbed Analogy of Necessary Solution Complexity....................................................................................................................103
Figure 65 – Accumulating Solution Complexity............................................................................................................................................................104
Figure 66 – Simple and Complex Problems and Solutions ..........................................................................................................................................104
Figure 67 – Solution Complexity and Time to Deliver.................................................................................................................................................105
Figure 68 – Non-Linear Nature of Solution Delivery Complexity..............................................................................................................................108
Figure 69 – Adjusted Complexity Curve.........................................................................................................................................................................108
Figure 70 – Sample Solution Complexity Score on Solution Complexity Curve......................................................................................................111
Figure 71 – Sample Solution Complexity Dashboard ...................................................................................................................................................112
Figure 72 – Solution Complexity Dashboard With Not Applicable Complexity Factors .......................................................................................113
Figure 73 – Iterated Solution Delivery Phases................................................................................................................................................................114
Figure 74 – Expanded Set of Solution Delivery Steps....................................................................................................................................................115
Figure 75 – Solution Delivery Process with Solution Delivery Phase and Role Dimensions..................................................................................116
Figure 76 – Progress of Solution Delivery Through Phases and Roles.......................................................................................................................124
Figure 77 – Foundational Solution Delivery Activities.................................................................................................................................................125
Figure 78 – Sparse Business Stakeholder Requirements and the Complete Set of Solution Requirements..........................................................128
Figure 79 – Mapping the Requirements Space to the Solution Space.........................................................................................................................130
Figure 80 – Wider Requirements Engineering Landscape...........................................................................................................................................131
Figure 81 – Hierarchy of Information Technology, Business Processes and Value Achieved ...............................................................................136
Figure 82 – Lessons Learned from Large Solutions Implementations .......................................................................................................................138
Figure 83 – Process Optimisation Through Compression of Steps and Collapse of Handoffs ..............................................................................139
Figure 84 – Generic Representation of a Process...........................................................................................................................................................141
Figure 85 – Process Decomposition.................................................................................................................................................................................142
Figure 86 – Process Decomposition Example ................................................................................................................................................................142
Figure 87 – Identification of Fundamental Business Process Activity Sets................................................................................................................143
Figure 88 – Activity Linkage within Processes...............................................................................................................................................................144
Figure 89 – Process Inputs, Rules, Actions, Decisions and Results ............................................................................................................................144
Figure 90 – Process Groups...............................................................................................................................................................................................145
Figure 91 – Business Process Analysis High-Level Steps..............................................................................................................................................147
Figure 92 – Process Analysis Information Structure.....................................................................................................................................................148
Figure 93 – Business Process Design Success Factors...................................................................................................................................................149
Figure 94 – Business Process Design Standards and Approaches – Part 1................................................................................................................151
Figure 95 – Business Process Design Standards and Approaches – Part 2................................................................................................................151
Figure 96 – BPMN Pools and Lanes.................................................................................................................................................................................153
Figure 97 – BPMN Structure.............................................................................................................................................................................................153
Figure 98 – BPMN Flow Objects......................................................................................................................................................................................154
Figure 99 – Modifying BPMN ..........................................................................................................................................................................................155
Figure 100 – BPMN Event Modification.........................................................................................................................................................................157
Figure 101 – Solution Architecture Engagement Models.............................................................................................................................................160
Figure 102 – Mapping Business Need to Engagement Types ......................................................................................................................................161
Figure 103 – Generalised Business Engagement Structure ..........................................................................................................................................162
Figure 104 – Creating Customised Set of Activities, Roles and Deliverables ............................................................................................................163
Figure 105 – Possible Factors Driving the Need for a Business Engagement............................................................................................................164
Figure 106 – Business Engagement Change Domains..................................................................................................................................................165
Figure 107 – Architecture Engagement Extended Factors...........................................................................................................................................166
Figure 108 – Core and Extended Engagement Teams ..................................................................................................................................................167
Figure 109 – Business Engagement High Level Activities and Their Logical Sequence..........................................................................................168
Figure 110 – Business Engagement Activity Sequencing..............................................................................................................................................169
Figure 111 – Steps Within Business Engagement Activity 0. Define And Agree Engagement Scope...................................................................170
Figure 112 – Sample Table of Contents for Architecture Engagement Main Deliverable ......................................................................................175
Figure 113 – Steps Within Business Engagement Activity 1. Information Collection And Assessment..............................................................176
Figure 114 – What Customers Want...............................................................................................................................................................................179
Figure 115 – Data Relationship Diagram........................................................................................................................................................................181
Figure 116 – Business Solution Classification................................................................................................................................................................183
Figure 117 – Steps Within Business Engagement Activity 2. Define Vision, Business Principles And System Principles ................................184
Figure 118 – Business Model Canvass.............................................................................................................................................................................187
Figure 119 – Principles, Limitations and Assumptions Across Core Business Domains........................................................................................189
Figure 120 – Steps Within Business Engagement Activity 3. Document Business Processes, Entity Model, Capacity Planning And Solution
Approach..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................192
Figure 121 – Right-to-Left BPI and Left-to-Right BPR.................................................................................................................................................193

Page 13 of 538
Figure 122 – Process Decomposition...............................................................................................................................................................................194
Figure 123 – Doing and Managing Processes.................................................................................................................................................................195
Figure 124 – Process Attributes ........................................................................................................................................................................................195
Figure 125 – Extended Process Definition......................................................................................................................................................................197
Figure 126 – Sample Entity Relationship Diagram for Conceptual Model................................................................................................................198
Figure 127 – Sample Resource Entity Model..................................................................................................................................................................200
Figure 128 – Sample Capacity Planning Model View ...................................................................................................................................................200
Figure 129 – Spectrum of Solution Component Acquisition Options .......................................................................................................................201
Figure 130 – Combinations of Options ...........................................................................................................................................................................201
Figure 131 – Cost Estimation Process..............................................................................................................................................................................203
Figure 132 – Steps Within Business Engagement Activity 4. Document Systems, Applications And Functions................................................206
Figure 133 – Inventory of Interfaces, Exchanges and Transfers..................................................................................................................................207
Figure 134 – Steps Within Business Engagement Activity 5. Define Organisation, Infrastructure And Data.....................................................209
Figure 135 – Steps Within Business Engagement Activity 6. Conduct Solution And Product Evaluation And Selection.................................214
Figure 136 – Approaches To Product and Service Evaluation And Selection...........................................................................................................215
Figure 137 – Core Elements of the Product and Service Evaluation And Selection Process...................................................................................216
Figure 138 – High Level Steps of Product/Service Evaluation And Selection Process.............................................................................................217
Figure 139 – Steps Within Business Engagement Activity 7. Design Model Architecture......................................................................................222
Figure 140 – Options for Existing Technical Infrastructure ........................................................................................................................................224
Figure 141 – Dimensions of Verification of Target Architecture................................................................................................................................225
Figure 142 – Steps Within Business Engagement Activity 8. Consolidate, Finalise And Review Design .............................................................226
Figure 143 – Generalised Solution Design Process........................................................................................................................................................227
Figure 144 – Generalised Solution Design Process Mapped to Engagement Types.................................................................................................228
Figure 145 – Function Involvement During Solution Design......................................................................................................................................230
Figure 146 – Decision Points Within the Solution Design Process.............................................................................................................................231
Figure 147 – Solution Design Work Not Proceed With During the Design Process ...............................................................................................232
Figure 148 – Iterations During Solution Design Process..............................................................................................................................................233
Figure 149 – Representation of Complete Generalised Solution Design Process.....................................................................................................233
Figure 150 – Analysis and Decision Loops......................................................................................................................................................................234
Figure 151 – Analysis Paralysis And Decision Avoidance............................................................................................................................................234
Figure 152 – Solution Design Journey and Solution Architecture Engagement Types ...........................................................................................235
Figure 153 – Path from Problematic Situation to Solution ..........................................................................................................................................237
Figure 154 – Getting the Scope of the Early Engagement Right..................................................................................................................................239
Figure 155 – Resolution Needs To Be Bridge From the As-Is Problematic Situation to a To-Be Improved Situation.......................................240
Figure 156 – Core Early Engagement Process ................................................................................................................................................................241
Figure 157 – Problem and Resolution Options ..............................................................................................................................................................242
Figure 158 – Early Engagement Information Gathering Aspects................................................................................................................................243
Figure 159 – Activity Model Layers..................................................................................................................................................................................248
Figure 160 – Layers of Detail in Activity Models...........................................................................................................................................................249
Figure 161 – Different Activity Views by Different Engagement Business Participants .........................................................................................250
Figure 162 – Sample Rich Picture.....................................................................................................................................................................................252
Figure 163 – Resolutions and Their Paths to Implementation ....................................................................................................................................254
Figure 164 – Dimensions of Internal Organisation Change.........................................................................................................................................255
Figure 165 – Different Profiles of Organisation Changes for Different Resolution Options..................................................................................256
Figure 166 – Solution Value Equation.............................................................................................................................................................................257
Figure 167 – Resolution Success Factors .........................................................................................................................................................................257
Figure 168 – Superset Of Constraints Sets Will Narrow Range Of Available, Realistic And Achievable Resolution Options..........................258
Figure 169 – Moving From The As-Is To The Target To-Be Situation......................................................................................................................258
Figure 170 – Attrition from Initial Business Concept to Operational Solution........................................................................................................259
Figure 171 – Decision Making During the Solution Design Journey .........................................................................................................................259
Figure 172 – Step 1 – Define Existing and New Business Processes ...........................................................................................................................262
Figure 173 – Step 2 – Define New and Existing Functions...........................................................................................................................................263
Figure 174 – Sample Process and Function Breakdown – Buy a Product or Service ...............................................................................................264
Figure 175 – Step 3 – Define New and Existing Actors.................................................................................................................................................265
Figure 176 – Step 4 – Existing or New Systems and Applications...............................................................................................................................266
Figure 177 – Examples of Levels of Detail of System Components.............................................................................................................................267
Figure 178 – Step 5 – List Interfaces and Data Exchanges Between System Components ......................................................................................268
Figure 179 – Step 6 – Identify Actor System Interactions.............................................................................................................................................269
Figure 180 – Step 7 – Identify Actor Actor Interactions...............................................................................................................................................270
Figure 181 – Basic Solution on a Page .............................................................................................................................................................................271
Figure 182 – Step 8 – List Data Impacts ..........................................................................................................................................................................272
Figure 183 – Step 9 – Data Exchanges Required Between Systems.............................................................................................................................273

Introduction to Solution Architecture Book

Introduction to Solution Architecture Book

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

What's hot

What's hot (20)

Similar to Introduction to Solution Architecture Book

Similar to Introduction to Solution Architecture Book (20)

More from Alan McSweeney

More from Alan McSweeney (20)

Recently uploaded

Recently uploaded (20)

Introduction to Solution Architecture Book