Business Reference Model

Intro

A Business Reference Model provides a standardized taxonomy of business functions, capabilities, and services. In EA, it improves consistency and reuse across designs.

Key points:

• Defines common vocabulary and structure
• Supports benchmarking and interoperability
• Common use cases: capability libraries, service catalogues, operating model design
• Pitfall: adopting a model without tailoring to context

Examples:

• Reference capability model aligned to strategy
• Service taxonomy reused across portfolios
• Function map guiding organization design

In practice:

Align reference models with Business Architecture governance.

Related terms: Capability; Value Stream; Operating Model

FAQs:

Q: How do we tailor a reference model?
A: Map to your strategy and remove or add elements based on fit.

Q: What’s the benefit?
A: Faster design and clearer alignment across initiatives.

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