The process is preceded by an initial meeting where we focus on understanding their goals and challenges. Followed by this, we carry out a rough mapping of relevant systems, processes and data. Finally, we draw up a roadmap and initiate the actions that are the highest priority.

Risk mitigation is a core focus of EA. For security, we integrate security principles (Security by Design) into the architecture right from the start, rather than applying it as an afterthought. When it comes to compliance, we ensure that applications and data management comply with regulatory requirements such as GDPR and other industry regulations, using clear data management and storage models. To ensure operational stability, we actively identify single points of failure and high-risk legacy systems, and prioritize measures to modernize or replace these to ensure continuous operation.

The main difference lies in focus and scope. Business architecture is strategic and looks at the whole — it defines the “what” and “why” by ensuring that technology and systems support the long-term goals of the business. Solution architecture is tactical and focuses on the “how”. It addresses the technical design of a specific project, ensuring that the solution is built correctly, efficiently and within the framework set by the business architecture.

Business architecture serves as the bridge between strategy and execution. We translate business objectives into specific architecture requirements and capabilities, and develop a target image along with a roadmap. This roadmap shows exactly how we move from the current situation to the desired goal. In addition, we establish a management process that ensures each IT project is measured against the strategic roadmap prior to approval and funding.