Patterns

Intro

Patterns are reusable solutions put into context for recurring problems. In EA and BPA, they guide how to apply building blocks, when, and with what trade‑offs.

Key points:

• Capture proven approaches for reuse.
• Accelerate design and reduce risk.
• Common use cases across EA/BPM/Data/App/Tech include integration styles, workflow patterns, and data modeling templates.
• Pitfall: applying a pattern without validating fit for context.

Examples:

• Event‑driven integration pattern for async updates.
• Human task workflow pattern with escalation.
• Slowly changing dimension pattern in data warehousing.

In practice:

Maintain a pattern catalog with guidance on applicability, trade‑offs, and examples.

Related terms: Building Block; Architecture Principles; Reference Architecture

FAQs:

Q: Are patterns the same as templates?
A: Templates implement patterns; patterns describe the solution approach.

Q: Can patterns be combined?
A: Yes, if their assumptions align.

‍