Architecture Development Method

Intro

The Architecture Development Method (ADM) is a structured approach for developing and managing EA, popularised by frameworks like TOGAF. It guides iterative planning and delivery.

Key points:

• Provides phases for vision, baseline/target, opportunities/solutions, migration, governance
• Encourages iterative refinement and stakeholder engagement
• Common use cases: transformation programmes, capability planning, roadmap development, governance cycles
• Pitfall: rigid application can ignore organisational context

Examples:

• Establishing architecture vision and scope
• Defining baseline and target architectures with migration plans
• Embedding governance checkpoints into delivery

In practice:

Relate ADM activities to Enterprise Architecture operating models.

Related terms: Architecture Vision; Roadmap; Governance

FAQs:

Q: Is ADM only for TOGAF?
A: No — similar phased approaches can be adapted to any EA context.

Q: How to keep ADM lightweight?
A: Focus on essential artefacts and fast checkpoints.

‍