What is architecture Information Technology Architecture in terms of IT? In the context of IT, Information Technology (IT) architecture is the design and structure of architecture refers to an an organization's information systems. It involves planning and overall design or organizing the components of IT, ensuring they work together framework of technical efficiently. systems to achieve specific goals or functionalities IT architecture encompasses various aspects, including hardware, software, networks, data, and processes. The goal is to create a framework that supports the organization's business objectives, ensuring scalability, security, and adaptability to meet changing needs. Information Technology Architecture IT architecture can be further elaborated as the blueprint for how an organization's technology infrastructure is organized and interconnected. It includes considerations for:
1. Hardware: The physical components such as servers, computers, and devices.
2. Software: Applications, operating systems, and middleware that facilitate various functions. 3. Networks: The communication infrastructure, including routers, switches, and protocols. 4. Data: How information is stored, accessed, and managed throughout the organization. 5. Processes: The workflows and procedures governing the use and maintenance of IT systems.
By strategically designing IT architecture, organizations aim to optimize performance,
reduce redundancy, enhance security, and ensure that technology aligns effectively with the overall business strategy. Types of Information Technology Architecture Enterprise Architecture Enterprise architecture (EA) is the blueprint of the whole company and defines the architecture of the complete company. It includes all applications and IT systems that are used within the company and by different companies' departments including all applications ,integration platforms , web, portal and mobile apps, data analytical tooling, data warehouse and data lake, operational and development , security, and collaborative applications An enterprise architect is an IT professional who ensures an organization’s IT strategy is aligned with its business goals. They analyze business properties, define all business needs, and the external environment.
Scope: Encompasses the entire organization.
Purpose: Aligns IT strategy with business goals, ensuring efficiency and interoperability. Components: Includes business architecture, data architecture, application architecture, and technology architecture. Focus: Emphasizes the holistic view of the organization's processes, systems, and infrastructure. Types of Information Technology Architecture Solution Architecture Solution Architecture (SA) is the practice of designing, describing, and managing solution engineering to match it with specific business problems. A good solutions architect looks at the existing environment and analyses what technologies are available and what software product must be developed to provide the best solution for a problem.
Scope: Focused on specific projects or initiatives.
Purpose: Designs solutions that meet the requirements of a particular business problem or opportunity. Components: Involves defining the structure and behavior of systems, ensuring they align with the overall enterprise architecture. Focus: Addresses the needs of individual projects, ensuring they integrate seamlessly with existing systems. Types of Information Technology Architecture Technology Architecture Technology Architecture (TA) is the detailed description of the various technology components needed to meet business objectives, the logic that governs them, and the data associated with them. Technology architects focus on how components are designed and built to help you find robust and cost-effective software and hardware solutions.
Scope: Concentrates on the technology infrastructure.
Purpose: Defines the hardware, software, networks, and other technical components needed to support IT systems. Components: Involves specifying technologies, platforms, and protocols to ensure a stable and efficient IT environment. Focus: Emphasizes the technical aspects of IT systems, ensuring reliability, scalability, and security. How IT Architecture works : :
Real life examples : Smartphone , Newspaper business , Cloud Computing
Test Bank for Information Technology for Management Digital Strategies for Insight Action and Sustainable Performance 10th Edition Turban Pollard and Wood 1118897781 9781118897782 - PDF Version Is Available For Instant Access