Understanding the Layers of Enterprise Architecture: Business, Application & Information

Understanding the Layers of Enterprise Architecture: Business, Application & Information

Enterprise architecture (EA) is the blueprint that defines an organization’s structure, processes, and technology. It provides a framework for aligning business strategies and goals with IT infrastructure. The benefits of EA are many, including improved efficiency, reduced costs, increased agility, and better decision-making. In this article, we will explore the different layers of EA and how they work together seamlessly to achieve the desired outcomes.

The Business Layer

The business layer of EA defines the organization’s structure, its goals, and the processes required to achieve those goals. This layer focuses on the business processes, policies, and procedures that drive the organization. The primary goal of this layer is to ensure that the organization’s business strategies are aligned with its IT infrastructure.

For example, a company might decide to implement a customer relationship management (CRM) system. The business layer would define the processes for lead generation, sales, and customer support that the CRM system needs to support. It would also define how the CRM system should integrate with other systems, such as finance or logistics.

The Application Layer

The application layer of EA defines the software applications that support the business processes defined in the business layer. This layer includes the software systems that perform specific functions, such as customer relationship management, invoicing, or inventory management.

The application layer defines the requirements for each software system, including the features, functionality, and integration requirements. It also defines the data that each system needs to exchange with other systems and how that exchange should occur.

For example, an organization might decide to implement a new payroll system. The application layer would define the features and functionality required for the system to calculate employee pay, generate tax forms, and integrate with the finance system.

The Information Layer

The information layer of EA defines the data architecture that supports the business processes and software applications defined in the business and application layers. This layer focuses on the data models, data flow, data storage, and security required to ensure that data is both available and secure.

The information layer defines how data is created, stored, and used within the organization. It ensures that data is accurate, consistent, and accessible to those who need it.

For example, an organization might decide to implement a new data warehouse. The information layer would define the data models and structures required to support the organization’s reporting and analytics needs. It would also define the data security policies required to ensure that sensitive data is protected.

Conclusion

In summary, enterprise architecture provides a framework that ensures an organization’s strategies, goals, and IT infrastructure align with each other. The business layer defines the organization’s structure, goals, and processes. The application layer defines the software systems that support those processes. And the information layer defines the data that flows through those systems.

When these layers work together seamlessly, the organization benefits from improved efficiency, reduced costs, increased agility, and better decision-making. By understanding the layers of enterprise architecture, organizations can design and implement IT infrastructure that supports their business goals.