In the world of Enterprise Architecture, if TOGAF provides a “path” (a methodology) for developing an architecture, the Zachman Framework offers a “map” (a thinking grid) to organize and classify information about a complex enterprise.
The Zachman Framework is not a step-by-step process, but a powerful classification tool. This article will introduce the structure of this framework and guide you on how to use it to gain a comprehensive view of the entire enterprise.
1. The Zachman Framework Structure: A 6×6 Thinking Grid
The Zachman Framework is a two-dimensional matrix, made up of six rows and six columns, each representing a different perspective on the enterprise.
The Columns (Abstractions): Answering “Who, What, When…” The columns represent the interrogatives (abstractions) by which a system can be described:
- What (Data): The data or business entities.
- How (Function): The function, process, or activity.
- Where (Network): The locations and networks.
- Who (People): The people, roles, and organizations.
- When (Time): The time, events, and cycles.
- Why (Motivation): The motivation, goals, and strategy.
The Rows (Perspectives): Reflecting Different Stakeholder Views The rows represent different perspectives of various stakeholders, from the highest level of abstraction to the most detailed:
- 1. Planner (Scope Contexts): The viewpoint of a strategic planner. It answers the question, “Where are we and why?”.
- 2. Owner (Business Concepts): The viewpoint of a business owner. It answers the question, “What will it look like?”.
- 3. Designer (System Logic): The viewpoint of a system designer. It answers the question, “How should we build it?”.
- 4. Builder (Technology Physics): The viewpoint of a builder (engineer). It answers the question, “What will it be built with?”.
- 5. Sub-Contractor (Component Assemblies): The viewpoint of a subcontractor. Focuses on the implementation of specific components.
- 6. The Enterprise: The final viewpoint, representing the system itself in operation.
2. Application for Enterprise Exploration
Each cell in the Zachman matrix represents a specific type of information or documentation. By populating these cells, an organization can:
- Create a Holistic View: Ensure that every aspect of the enterprise is considered from multiple perspectives.
- Ensure Consistency: Uncover the relationships between data, processes, people, and technology. For example, a change in the “Why” column (strategy) will impact the “How” column (processes).
- Improve Communication: Provide a structured way to present the architecture to different stakeholders. High-level managers might only be interested in the top rows, while engineers need the information in the bottom rows.
- Identify Gaps: An empty cell in the matrix can indicate an aspect of the architecture that has not been considered or documented adequately.
The Zachman Framework is not just a technical tool. It is a way of thinking to organize complexity, especially useful in the early stages of developing Enterprise Architecture (EA) and Business Architecture, helping everyone to have a shared “map” before starting the journey.
Conclusion
The Zachman Framework is a powerful classification tool that helps architects and managers gain a structured and comprehensive view of the enterprise. Rather than a process, it is a thinking grid that organizes and explores information, ensuring that no critical aspect of a complex system is overlooked.
