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Building Block

Building Block

Intro

A Building Block is a packaged component or pattern used as a unit in solution design. In EA, building blocks enable reuse and consistency.

Key points:

  • Encapsulates functionality and interfaces
  • Speeds delivery through reuse
  • Common use cases: security components, integration patterns, data services, UI modules
  • Pitfall: unclear ownership or documentation reduces reuse

Examples:

  • Reusable authentication component
  • Event processing pattern for streaming
  • Data access service with standard contracts

In practice:

Connect building blocks to Enterprise Architecture standards.

Related terms: Architecture Building Blocks; Reference Architecture; Pattern

FAQs:

Q: What makes a block reusable?
A: Clear scope, interfaces, constraints, and versioning.

Q: Where should blocks live?
A: In a managed library linked to standards and references.

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