McKinsey developed the ten timeless tests for strategy (Chris Bradley et al., 2011). In the following I will not go into the business-related question as this is very well described in the article above. I will rather focus on the architecture-specific viewpoint and how we can use these tests to challenge a business strategy and […]
An Enterprise Architecture Checklist to Challenge Business Strategy Read More »
Enterprise Architecture is often about tackling intricate problems. Unfortunately, many people get too excited about potential solutions and rush into implementation without fully understanding the problem itself. The Peril of Premature Solutions: Before diving into solutions like “updating the ERP system,” “implementing blockchain,” or “creating a 360-degree customer view,” it’s crucial to ensure they truly
Are you working on the right problem? Read More »
In the realm of business strategy, the concept of a sales funnel is well-known. To sell a product, you need to guide potential customers through stages of awareness, interest, desire, and ultimately, purchase. Enterprise Architecture (EA) faces a similar challenge. We’re not selling cars, but rather, a vision of a more efficient, resilient, and innovative
The Invisible Architect: Why Enterprise Architecture Struggles to Make an Impact Read More »
In the post from last week I shared some thoughts on business capabilities and why they are important. Let’s discuss about how to use them. Before talking about how to use them here is my definition of a business capability: Business capabilities are atomic elements that in different combinations can deliver all the business processes
Business Capabilities: Office decoration or action plan? Read More »
As this is a topic of much debate in theory and practice I would like to emphasize the rational why something like business capabilities is necessary for most enterprise architecture setting: Grouping In Enterprise Architecture a key decision to make is to group resources together. These resources could be Labeling We need labels that signal
Why you need granular business capabilities despite having business processes Read More »
In the previous post, we explored the idea of increasing the number of architects to improve architectural outcomes. The data suggests that this approach is often counterproductive. Many might then assume that simply throwing more money at the problem is the solution. However, our research indicates that financial incentives, while important, are not the primary
Can You Buy a Good Architect? It’s More Than Just a Salary Read More »
We often hear that you can simply “buy” great architecture from a software vendor or system integrator. While this might benefit the vendor’s bottom line, it doesn’t guarantee a good fit for your organization. Countless failed projects attest to this. Throwing more architects at the problem isn’t the solution either. We actually have a fact
Can You Buy Good Architecture? It’s Not Just About the Money Read More »
Understand how Enterprise Architecture can connect the organization to generate value and address negative silo impacts. Raise your Enterprise Architecture skills to build a shared goal to close the gaps. Understand the disconnects in strategic transformation Sharm Manwani and Oliver Bossert, 2024 You cannot deliver strategy without (an aligned) structure that executes the strategic plan.
Sharm Manwani and Oliver Bossert, 2024 Develop leadership, managerial and business skills to plan and execute a transformation of the operating model of the organization including any cultural changes. This is an extension of the usual operational and tactical architectural initiatives. In the two prior sections we discussed the necessary skills to transform yourself to
Transform the Enterprise Read More »
Sharm Manwani and Oliver Bossert, 2024 We transform the architecture if we have not only strong personal skills, but also the right professional skills. Develop architecture, data, technology and business skills to set up a robust governance. Build a roadmap for an innovative business model using advanced technologies. Being a skilled architect is the foundation
Transform Architecture Read More »