EnterpriseArchitecture

Enterprise is any collection of organizations that has a common set of goals.  The purpose of enterprise architecture is to optimize across the enterprise the often fragmented legacy of processes into an integrated environment that is responsive to change and supportive of the delivery of the business strategy.

In simple terms, an enterprise architecture addresses this need, by providing a strategic context for the evolution of the IT system in response to the constantly changing needs of the business environment.

If you have a good enterprise architecture, it can bring important business benefits as listed below:

• More efficient IT operation
• Better return on existing investment, reduced risk for future investment.
• Faster, simpler and cheaper procurement.

An architecture framework is a tool that can be used for developing a broad range of architectures.  It contains a list of recommended standards and compliant products that can be used to implement the building blocks of the firm's architecture.

As per Simon Townson, the benefits of enterprise architecture derive from the better planning, earlier visibility, and an more informed designs that result when it is introduced