Enterprise Architecture: Justification - Essay Example

Enterprise Architecture: Justification Introduction An enterprise has been defined as a business venture that has recognizable business functions and operations. It is a stand-alone entity that sometimes has other enterprises within it. Architecture is the underlying framework that makes up a system. It is like the skeleton on which a system is developed. Enterprise Architecture is the concept of framework that defines the operations of an organization. The application of this framework is with the overall intention for the organization to achieve its future objectives, and be successful.

Information has become a crucial part of most modern enterprises and organizations. It has a direct impact on the activities of a business and all the related functions. Discussion The ability to effectively manage the integrity and quality of this information is vital for the survival and success of any organization. Enterprise Architecture brings together the Information Technology components into the management of normal business activities. In the Department of Motor Vehicles, management of information and data is very vital.

The user data must always be accurate and updated. The management of all the business aspects is improved by application of the Enterprise Architecture structure. The DMV has almost 2000 employees and all of them have to input their information into a database for management. The Enterprise Architecture program is a management system that comprises of many subsystems. It is often viewed as a ‘system of systems’. These components function together to give a fully functional system. Some of the subsystems that are in the DMV are; credentialing, tax processing and oversight of related programs.

These functions are modules that work together to deliver services to the clients. These systems all need to be automated to be able to deliver accurate service efficiently to clients. Due to the high demand for IT services in the business environment integration is a necessity. This is also in line with keeping up with current standards in the management of data and information. In the first stage of the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC), which is called Project Identification and Selection, the identification of the project is done.

In this initial stage, the feasibility of the system is done. The cost benefit analysis is also conducted. These processes are essential in the beginning of a project, and they are achieved with the implementation of the Enterprise Architecture. The preparation of a strategic plan is a vital step in any organization, and it takes up considerable resources. The purpose of this phase is to establish and maintain an understanding of the projects’ requirements, between the system developer, the stakeholder, which is the US government in this case, and the customer.

This communication is very essential in the development of the system. This ascertains that the interests of all the parties involved are met. It significantly reduces the chances of the system failure and bad design (Arison & Torkzadet, 2008). The development of the Enterprise Architecture is also in line with the SDLC, but it covers more areas. The SDLC is generally designed to guide the development of individual systems that will make up a large system. In the development of the Enterprise Architecture, all these areas are covered and the organization’s business aspects, as well.

It provides guideline for decision making, accountability, investment management and other management activities. In the design phase of the system, the Enterprise Architecture caters for the development of most of the components, essential in the system. In the given case study of the DMV, these components or subsystems are discussed below. Interfaces, these provide a platform for the users and clients to access the system and interact with it. Different users are given different privileges according to their purpose of interaction.

Due to the sensitive nature of the information stored in the system, security is a major concern. This is addressed by placing sufficient measures to protect the data from unauthorized viewing and manipulation. The security of a system determines its integrity. Administration is another aspect that is handled by the system. The administration is responsible for the management and oversight of the system (Arison & Torkzadet, 2008). They give users’ privileges according to their purpose in the system; they also monitor access to the system.

Customization enables the system to meet the unique needs of the DMV. This makes interaction with the system user friendly. The reporting aspect is for generation of reports that are used for analysis. This analysis improves the system and shows where improvements are necessary. Data access is the most powerful and essential aspect because the whole system is dependent on it. It facilitates the input, manipulation and storage of data. Its management is vital. The advantages and unique qualities offered by the Enterprise Architecture are numerous.

But some of the most important are discussed below. The ready availability of documentation is very vital in system improvement. Proper documentation is a good feature of the system, when problems arise or troubleshooting is to be done, there is not much difficulty. This documentation is also important when updating security protocols. It also helps the developer monitor progress on the system. The main goal of EA is another major advantage to the organization. Integrating the business processes and activities improves performance of the organization.

This improvement also leads to reduced costs. The unification and integration of data across is another advantage. This improves data access by internal and external users. The development of integration between business and IT departments improves an organization’s processes significantly. Conclusion The main benefits that come from this successful implementation of Enterprise Architecture in the DMV, show clearly how to turn organizational challenges into business opportunities. With good communication and a mature IT environment, successful implementation can be achieved (Arison & Torkzadet, 2008).

It is easy to implement when the organization has a clear set of goals. References Arison, D. & Torkzadet, G. (2008). Information Systems Project Management. London: Sage Publishers. .