The TOGAF® Standard is an open standard for enterprise architecture that provides a comprehensive approach to architecture design, development, and governance. It was created by The Open Group, an international consortium of more than 370 companies and organizations that produce and deliver leading-edge software, systems, and services. TOGAF is used by organizations worldwide to help them improve their business efficiency and effectiveness and realize a greater return on investment. It is an industry-standard architecture framework that your organization may use freely to develop an information systems architecture.
The TOGAF Body of Knowledge is a comprehensive guide to the TOGAF standard, the different versions, and their evolution.
In addition, TOGAF is a popular framework because it’s open source. Businesses can access the guidelines and best practices for free without paying a consultant or licensing fees. TOGAF also offers certification for business professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise using the framework.
The TOGAF framework is an open standard that provides a comprehensive and consistent approach for designing, planning, implementing, and governing information technology (IT) architectures. The Open Group created TOGAF to achieve the following:
What Kind of Architecture Does TOGAF Deal With?
Four architecture domains are commonly accepted as subsets of an overall enterprise architecture: business, data, application, and technology. TOGAF is designed to support all four of these domains.
TOGAF can help organizations build scalable, reliable, and secure architectures. It encompasses all aspects of an organization’s information technology environment, from strategic planning to detailed design and implementation.
The contents of the TOGAF standard reflect the structure and content of an Architecture Capability within an enterprise.
The TOGAF 9.2 standard is the latest Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF) version. It provides an unambiguous and authoritative description of how to build an enterprise architecture that meets the needs of business and IT stakeholders.
The TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, has been released as an update to the previous version and provides improved guidance, document structure, and corrections while removing obsolete content.
Key enhancements in this version include updates to the Business Architecture and the Content Metamodel, which makes it easier to use and maintain the TOGAF framework.
TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, however, does retain the following main features and structure of Version 9.1:
Modular Structure
The TOGAF standard, Version 9.2 has a modular structure that allows for
Greater usability
Each standard part has a defined purpose, making it easier to use as a standalone set of guidelines in isolation.
TOGAF standard can be incrementally adopted, meaning businesses can start using it at any stage.
The accompanying portfolio of guidance material, known as the TOGAF Library, helps architects apply the TOGAF approach practically.
Content Framework
In detail, the TOGAF standard provides a content framework to help organizations create greater consistency in their architecture outputs. The framework includes a model of architectural work products generated during the Architecture Development Method (ADM). This helps ensure that all stakeholders understand the end goal and what steps must be taken along the way.
Extended Guidance
The TOGAF standard is a comprehensive framework that provides organizations with the concepts and guidelines necessary to establish an integrated hierarchy of architectures. The framework spans multiple teams within an organization and allows for developing architectures compliant with overarching architectural governance models. It includes, In particular, the following concepts:
Architectural Styles
The TOGAF standard’s design is meant to be flexible, allowing it to be used with various architectural styles. Examples are provided in the TOGAF standard, in Part III (ADM Guidelines and Techniques), and in the TOGAF Library.
These comprise a set of supporting materials that show in detail how the ADM can be applied to specific situations, for example:
Additional ADM Detail
Additional detailed information for supporting the execution of the ADM is included in TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2. The areas of enhancement are:
Supporting Guides
An important change introduced with the TOGAF Standard, Version 9.2, is the addition of TOGAF Series Guides and related Guides from The Open Group. These allow additional guidance to be provided and maintained separately from the standard.
Support for establishing and developing an Enterprise Architecture:
Support for Business Architecture:
Example reference models:
Guidance for SOA:
TOGAF is based on TAFIM (Technical Architecture Framework for Information Management), an IT management framework developed by the U.S. Defense Department in the 1990s. The DoD released TAFIM as a reference model for enterprise architecture, offering insight into their technical infrastructure, including how it’s structured, maintained, and configured to align with specific requirements. Since 1999, the DoD hasn’t used the TAFIM, and it’s been eliminated from all process documentation. TOGAF was created to fill this gap and provide an updated reference model for enterprise architecture that is still relevant today.
At the heart of TODAF is the Architecture Development Method (ADM), which assists businesses in establishing a process around the enterprise architecture lifecycle. The ADM can be adapted and customized to a specific organizational need, which can help inform the business’s approach to information architecture. By establishing requirements through multiple checkpoints, an organization can repeat the ADM process with minimal errors and create efficiencies within their business.
TOGAF is an enterprise architecture framework that embodies the concept of the Enterprise Continuum. This means it allows different organizational actors to communicate and work together to develop an IT architecture. With its foundation architecture, TOGAF also allows for using multiple frameworks, models, and assets. TOGAF provides all the necessary assets to carry out architectural development.
ToGAF is a comprehensive framework for enterprise architecture that defines how an organization should develop and manage its information systems. Within the Enterprise Continuum, the 10 phases of the TOGAF are designed to help businesses develop an Information System in an open, accountable, and business-centric way.
Preliminary Phase: To understand how TOGAF works, it is important to understand the necessary preparatory and initiation activities first. Before anything else, an Architecture Capability must be created, which includes customizing TOGAF for your organization, selecting appropriate tools, and defining Architecture Principles.
Requirements Management: This phase ensures that every stage of a TOGAF project is based on and validates business requirements. Requirements are identified, stored, and fed into and out of the relevant ADM phases, which dispose of, address, and prioritize requirements.
Phase A: Architecture Vision: Businesses must –
Phase B: Business Architecture
Phase C: Information Systems Architectures
Phase D Technology Architecture
The fundamental organization of an IT system, embodied in its hardware, software and communications technology their relationships to each other and the environment, and the principles governing its design and evolution
Phase E: Opportunities and Solutions
Phase F: Migration Planning – Develop a detailed Implementation and Migration Plan that addresses moving from the Baseline to the Target Architecture.
Phase G: Implementation Governance
Phase H: Architecture Change Management—Provide continual monitoring and a change management process to ensure that the architecture responds to the needs of the enterprise and maximizes business value.
While TOGAF is generally helpful for large corporations, smaller firms may benefit from using a scaled-down Architecture Development Model (ADM).
The ADM, or Architecture Development Methodology, is a key part of TOGAF and provides a foundation for practitioners to work. It is not prescriptive like other frameworks, instead offering a more flexible approach that can be tailored to the specific needs of the project. The ADM provides a foundation for practitioners to build on rather than offering a stringent ‘one size fits all’ approach. The ADM outlines a cycle of key steps that professionals can follow to develop an enterprise architecture.
TOGAF certification is a globally recognized qualification demonstrating an individual’s ability to use the TOGAF framework to deploy new technology and successfully manage enterprise architecture. The certification covers all aspects of TOGAF, from understanding the methodology to applying it in practical scenarios.
The TOGAF for People Certification program is designed to provide a clear path for professional development. Currently, there are four certifications available through The Open Group. However, it should be noted that the certification program summary disclaims that “it is not intended to validate the ability of Candidates to use the TOGAF standard effectively in practice, nor to determine whether Candidates are competent IT or Enterprise Architects.”
The TOGAF 9 Foundation certification is the first step in earning your TOGAF Certification. This credential is for professionals with a basic understanding of the TOGAF 9 standard and is designed to verify their knowledge of the terminology, structure, and basic concepts. To earn this certification, you must pass the Part 1 test.
To earn the TOGAF 9 Certified credential, you must pass the Part 1 and Part 2 exams. The TOGAF 9 Certified credential signifies that you have a deeper understanding of the TOGAF 9 standard and can analyze and apply your knowledge in developing an enterprise architecture.
Earning your TOGAF certification is a great way to show your dedication and expertise in business architecture. TOGAF certification is for professionals who want to demonstrate their understanding of and ability to use the business modeling, TOGAF business scenarios, information mapping, and other processes needed to develop a business architecture based on the TOGAF standard 9.2 specifications. You must pass the Business Architecture Part 1 exam to earn this credential.
The TOGAF Essentials 2018 Certification is for professionals who know and understand changes introduced in the TOGAF Body of Knowledge 2018. You must take at least three hours of training and answer 20 multiple-choice questions. Once you complete the training element, you will be invited by The Open Group to take the online assessment. To earn this credential, you must be TOGAF 9 Certified.
A TOGAF certification indicates that you have the skills and knowledge to effectively design, develop, and manage enterprise architecture using the TOGAF framework. There are three levels of certification:
– The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF) Foundation
– The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF) Certified
– The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF) Distinguished
In short, TOGAF Certification is one of the world’s most popular and well-respected enterprise architecture certifications. Earning your certification demonstrates that you are at the top of your game and deeply understand the TOGAF framework. Additionally, there are many areas where having a TOGAF certification can provide a significant return on investment.
The TOGAF certification is globally recognized and helps individuals learn about the Open Group Architecture Framework. The certification validates a full understanding of the structure of TOGAF, why every element is in place, and how it can be used to improve an organization’s IT infrastructure. Additionally, with knowledge of an organization’s IT infrastructure, employees can collaborate more effectively across teams, reduce redundancies, and increase overall effectiveness.
Increases the efficiency of enterprise architecture development: An organization’s architecture is a blueprint of its workings, and it is important to have a well-defined architecture to ensure that all essential elements are considered. This includes the IT infrastructure, the various departments, investors and stakeholders, etc. To keep up with the competition, organizations need to be able to change their strategies on a dime. This can often mean making significant changes to their company architecture. However, creating and developing a new company architecture can be time-consuming, difficult, and require a lot of expertise. That’s where TOGAF comes in – it provides organizations with a framework for creating and implementing an effective company architecture.
Helps in futureproofing organizations: A TOGAF-based architecture provides a blueprint that can be used repeatedly. Once a company’s IT capabilities and structures have been mapped out, it can be refined and reused as needed. Additionally, any changes made to the system can be incorporated into the existing blueprint, ensuring that the company’s IT infrastructure remains up-to-date. One of the key benefits of using TOGAF is that it has been around for 25 years, and businesses have had a chance to refine their processes with each update. Additionally, because TOGAF is an open standard, businesses can continue improving their efficiency through new tools and methodologies introduced with every update.
It provides common terminology worldwide: TOGAF is so popular because of its concise and common terminology. The professionals who use TOGAF understand the terminology, which helps them communicate effectively with other industries. This is a great benefit, making collaboration smoother and easier between different enterprises. One of its main benefits is that professionals can use it to quickly focus on their work and solve company-wide problems.
Additionally, TOGAF helps identify potential errors and provides practical solutions quickly.
Recognition and low cost of TOGAF certification: TOGAF helps businesses save time, effort, and money. The TOGAF certification is globally recognized, and many businesses prefer to hire certified professionals. The cost of becoming a TOGAF-certified professional is also very low compared to other certifications. Businesses, therefore, can provide TOGAF training and certification without concern for cost. The certification not only helps in career growth but also helps in understanding the business domain. TOGAF is updated regularly, so certified professionals can keep enhancing their knowledge.
Flexibility of the TOGAF Framework: TOFGAF is an excellent option for organizations that want to create successful architectures. The framework is very organic, allowing information and ideas to move smoothly and without disruption. In addition, TOGAF is very flexible; it can be molded into a unique framework that meets your organization’s specific needs. Plus, additional frameworks can be integrated to provide even more customization.
Better Return on investment: The TOGAF framework is an excellent option for organizations with a well-defined structure for their existing and planned systems. Additionally, it can lead to reduced complexity in the IT infrastructure, maximum return on investment in existing IT infrastructure, flexibility to make, buy, or outsource IT solutions, and reduced risk overall in new investments. All these benefits come with the fact that the costs of TOGAF certification are lower than those of other frameworks.
Faster, Simpler and Cheaper Procurement: Organizations can have a coherent strategy for future procurement and migration, making buying decisions simpler as all the relevant information is readily available in one place. Procurement processes are faster and more flexible, without sacrificing architectural coherence.
Continuous Evolution of TOGAF: TOGAF is continually being improved by introducing new tools and techniques to smooth the overall process. However, the core principle and framework of TOGAF are still intact without any considerable changes. Hence, employees who are familiar with its older versions can work effectively with those who have up-to-date knowledge.
TOGAF is a comprehensive framework for enterprise architecture. However, it does have some limitations.
The repository is not well defined and lacks depth and practical usages.
TOGAF does not include templates, making it difficult to use it effectively without creating your own templates.
TOGAF focuses on the implementation level instead of the solution architecture level which can be limiting.
TOGAF is designed for companies with hierarchical and departmentalized structures. This can make it difficult to use in more fluid organizations or have less traditional structures. Additionally, TOGAF does not include everything you need to create an architecture – you will need to supplement it with other frameworks or methods.
TOGAF is a comprehensive framework for enterprise architecture, but it takes time to learn all of the specification’s details. There are many modules and layers to TOGAF, so architects need to be familiar with the framework to use it effectively. Not everyone agrees that TOGAF is the best framework available, so companies should weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether or not to adopt it.
There are many benefits to becoming TOGAF certified. However, the professional value of TOGAF is limited if you don’t have the time and wherewithal to learn it. The certification process can be rigorous and requires a significant investment of both time and money.
A two-part blog by Roger Evernden, a British Enterprise Architect, details a comprehensive look at TOGAF critics’ criticism. In it, he examines ten of the most common complaints of TOGAF critics.
These are:
TOGAF is not Enterprise Architecture: Some say that TOGAF is only a subset of what constitutes EA and that it’s important to learn about EA in general rather than consider TOGAF certification the destination.
TOGAF is not best practice: On the one hand, TOGAF is a commendable effort to document some of the things that enterprise architects do. However, it does not necessarily reflect what the best architects in the world are doing! Additionally, there is often a lag between leading-edge EA practice and the documentation of that practice in TOGAF.
TOGAF is wordy, complicated, and difficult to apply. It has been critiqued for its use of difficult language. Adopting TOGAF can be a challenge because of the many rigid terms it introduces. These terms often lead to enterprise architects spending time and brainpower debating their meanings rather than solving business problems.
TOGAF isn’t a framework: Critics of TOGAF argue that it is not a groundbreaking methodology but another flawed architecture-based planning methodology. This perspective is based on the idea that TOGAF “flows” in the same stream of architecture-based planning methodologies together with BSP, Method/1, Information Engineering, EAP, FEAF, and all other earlier faddish methodologies. These critics claim that TOGAF has never worked well in real organizations and is nothing more than a management fad.
TOGAF is too IT-centric: On the other hand, TOGAF is heavily IT-centric and does not consider the business side of things as much. This criticism can be levied at most EA frameworks, as IT is a necessary backbone for most enterprises. However, EA should consider all aspects of the enterprise, including the management, people, skills, products, and events. In short, TOGAF is a great starting point for Enterprise Architecture (EA), but it should be supplemented with practice that considers the broader business, organizational, and environmental context. Changes primarily in IT create a huge ripple effect that can impact business operations, organizational management, and how the enterprise behaves and performs in its environment.
TOGAF is never really used in practice: Critics of TOGAF argue that, while it may have some value, this value is largely “symbolic.” They claim that TOGAF has nothing to do with a successful EA practice. Instead, they say, success depends on the practitioner’s skill and experience.
TOGAF certification is too simplistic: Some people argue that TOGAF certification is too simplistic. While it is true that one cannot learn any professional discipline in four days, asking a series of multiple choice questions is not an effective way of helping a student to understand their strengths and weaknesses as an enterprise architect.
Unfortunately, TOGAF has been met with criticism because not everyone believes that it is an adequate foundation for an EA career.
However, many people do see it as a reasonable starting point. The fact that there are so many certified “practitioners” around the globe has given some people the impression that all you need to do to become an Enterprise Architect is gain the TOGAF certification.
TOGAF dominates the EA world: Critics have said that TOGAF is nothing more than a basic framework that doesn’t provide much value. They claim that the Open Group has done a great job in marketing it and getting people certified, but TOGAF doesn’t offer anything substantial. Additionally, there is a perception among those unfamiliar with EA that TOGAF represents what enterprise architecture is. However, this is not the case, as TOGAF only provides a basic framework.
TOGAF is not based on evidence or research: The TOGAF documentation has been criticized for not including detailed references to show that its recommendations are based on research into or evidence about enterprise architecture practice. Additionally, the TOGAF documentation includes a few references to sources of information or links to additional resources. It is based on the contributions of experts in the field and has been refined over time through user feedback. As such, TOGAF is experience-based and not academically proven.
TOGAF isn’t updated frequently enough:
There is a lot of discussion about TOGAF and how it can be improved. Some argue that the documentation-heavy approach does not work well for EA as a discipline that is still evolving and discovering itself. Others suggest that a more Wiki-like system would allow for better updates and contributions from the community. The Open Group takes great care in producing high-quality, consistent documentation, but this may come at the expense of agility. Critics of TOGAF argue that it is difficult to update the documentation because ensuring that the documentation is consistent and that all cross-references and links are correct takes a significant amount of time and effort. Furthermore, any change to the documentation can have far-reaching consequences throughout the rest. As a result, updates to TOGAF are infrequent.
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