Architecture Principles in Context

Abstract

This chapter explores how architecture principle development is actually applied in a specific context. The approach is strongly determined by a number of factors such as the type of architecture, the architecture maturity level and the culture. With respect to the type of architecture, the role of architecture principles in enterprise architectures, solution architectures and reference architectures is very different. In an enterprise architecture they are very strategic, and specific to the organization, while in a reference architecture they are much more tactical and generic in nature. Architecture maturity determines the amount of rigor that is applied in architecture development. At a low level of maturity the process can be very informal, and success is determined by the knowledge and experience of individual architects. At a high level, architecture principles form an integral part of the process, and all stakeholders are involved in their definition and application. Culture is also a factor that strongly impacts the architecture principle development process. Architects are inclined to approach architecture as a rational, top-down process. In practice, organizations have their own way of dealing with change, such as power, motivation, learning and inherent change.