Reference Model

Intro

A reference model represents interrelated defined concepts, often as an abstract framework or domain-specific ontology. Standards bodies and expert groups publish them to encourage clear communication.

Key points:

• Provides a common vocabulary and structure.
• Supports consistency across designs and analyses.
• Common use cases across EA/BPM/Data/App/Tech include business function catalogs, process taxonomies, and component models.
• Pitfall: treating a reference model as a complete solution without tailoring.

Examples:

• Reference model of business capabilities for an industry.
• Process taxonomy used to benchmark performance.
• Component model guiding application architecture.

In practice:

Adopt a reference model as a baseline, then tailor to your context and governance needs.

Related terms: Reference Architecture; Model; Architecture Framework

FAQs:

Q: Is a reference model industry-specific?
A: Often, but many can be adapted across industries.

Q: Does it include implementation details?
A: No; it is conceptual and requires tailoring for solutions.

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