Welcome back to our TOGAF deep-dive series.
After building a common vocabulary in our last post, it’s time to zoom out and explore the full structure of TOGAF. This guide will give you a high-level overview of the TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition—the world’s leading Enterprise Architecture (EA) framework—and explain its core components in the modern context.
What is TOGAF?
TOGAF—short for The Open Group Architecture Framework—is an open, standards-based framework for designing, planning, implementing, and governing Enterprise Architecture. It provides:
- A proven methodology for architecture development.
- A structured set of tools, models, and guidance for building architectures that deliver business value.
The framework helps organizations transition from their current state to a desired future state, ensuring that IT systems, business processes, and strategic goals work together seamlessly.
Why Organizations Use TOGAF
- Business and IT Alignment – Ensures technology investments directly support business outcomes.
- Structured Change – Provides a repeatable method for managing complex transformations.
- Cost and Time Efficiency – Encourages reuse of architecture assets and best practices.
- Governance and Compliance – Maintains architectural integrity across programs and projects.
- Scalability and Flexibility – Adapts to organizations of all sizes and across different industries.
The Modular Structure of TOGAF 10
The TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition is built for flexibility and customization. It has a modular structure, allowing architects to apply only the parts relevant to their needs. The three major elements are:
- TOGAF Fundamental Content
The core of the standard, including:- Architecture Development Method (ADM) – The central process for creating and managing architectures.
- Architecture Content Framework – Defines deliverables, artifacts, and building blocks.
- Enterprise Continuum – Organizes and categorizes architecture assets for reuse.
- Reference Models – Predefined models to accelerate architecture work.
- TOGAF Series Guides
A collection of scenario-based guides that show how to apply TOGAF in specific contexts, such as:- Digital Transformation
- Agile at Scale
- Security Architecture
- Enterprise Architecture in Government or Industry Sectors
- TOGAF Library
A broad repository of supporting documents, techniques, and case studies to help tailor TOGAF to different environments.
Core Components of the TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition
1. Architecture Development Method (ADM)
The ADM is the central, iterative process for creating and managing an enterprise architecture.
It is organized into phases—from Preliminary and Architecture Vision, through Business, Data, Application, and Technology Architectures, to Implementation Governance and Architecture Change Management.
The ADM ensures consistency, repeatability, and alignment with business goals.
2. Architecture Content Framework and Enterprise Continuum
- Architecture Content Framework – Defines a structured set of deliverables and artifacts that describe the architecture.
- Enterprise Continuum – A classification system for architecture assets, ranging from generic, industry-level models to organization-specific solutions. This promotes reuse, standardization, and efficiency.
3. Reference Models
TOGAF provides two major reference models to speed up architecture work:
- Technical Reference Model (TRM) – A taxonomy for technology services and infrastructure.
- Integrated Information Infrastructure Reference Model (III-RM) – Focused on enabling interoperability of information systems across the enterprise.
4. Architecture Capability and Governance
This defines how the architecture function is established and operated within an organization. It covers:
- Roles and responsibilities
- Skills and training
- Governance processes to ensure compliance with architectural principles and standards
- Continuous improvement of the EA practice
How TOGAF 10 Adds Value
The TOGAF Standard, 10th Edition is designed to fit into diverse organizational contexts. Its modular approach allows:
Continuous adaptation – Scales with changing business priorities and technology trends.
Selective adoption – Use only what you need.
Integration with other frameworks – Works alongside Agile, ITIL, SAFe, and industry-specific standards.
