What is Architecture

The word architect, and architecture are thrown around a lot and are frequently misused. There a frameworks, methodologies, classifications that get into extreme detail on what architecture is.  Understanding what architecture means is valuable to excel in a current architect role or for use in career planning and development. The following distills a variety of sources such as Zachman and TOGAF into a more pragmatic summary of architecture.

Architecture (noun)

Units of technology have defined sets of architectural elements. These elements can be applied at any level from a macro / enterprise perspective, down to the view of a simple utility. All technology units contain the following architectural elements.

• Scope Vision Mission Purpose
• Business Process and Models
• Information Architecture (Applications)
• Technologies
• Operation

Architecture (verb)

The practice of architecture is applied with multiple perspectives. Each perspective takes into account the elements from the others, yet has a unique focus and function.

• Enterprise Architecture
  • Strategy & Direction
    • Mission / Vision
  • Guidance & Governance
    • Architectural Principles
    • Architectural Processes
• Domain Architecture
  • Knowledge Management
  • Run Time / Operation
• Solution Architecture
  • Tactical
  • Project