What is TOGAF?
TOGAF stands for The Open Group Architecture Framework. It is a globally recognised framework for developing, managing and implementing enterprise architecture within organisations. TOGAF provides a structured approach to setting up architecture in four main domains: business architecture, information architecture, application architecture and technical architecture.
TOGAF helps organisations to steer change in a structured way, from strategy through to execution.
🧠 Why use TOGAF?
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Uniform approach | Helps standardise architecture processes |
| Scalable and flexible | Applicable to small and large organisations alike |
| Supports decision-making | Makes trade-offs and impact transparent |
| Manages change | Supports project, programme and portfolio management |
| Integrates well with governance | Supports Governance structures and compliance |
🔄 The ADM cycle (Architecture Development Method)
TOGAF is based on the ADM: an iterative cycle of steps that guides architecture development.
| Phase | Goal |
|---|---|
| Preliminary | Preparation and establishment of context, guidelines and governance |
| A: Architecture Vision | Vision development, scope, business case and stakeholders |
| B: Business Architecture | Modelling of processes, roles, objectives |
| C: Information Systems Architecture | Information Architecture and Application Architecture |
| D: Technology Architecture | Technical Architecture: infrastructure, networks, security |
| E: Opportunities & Solutions | Implementation options and project proposals |
| F: Migration Planning | Transition planning, roadmap, dependencies |
| G: Implementation Governance | Oversight of execution and adherence to guidelines |
| H: Architecture Change Management | Management of changes, ongoing development |
The ADM cycle is not linear, but repeatable and scalable per domain or organisational unit.
📦 TOGAF and architectural layers
TOGAF distinguishes four main types of architecture:
- Business architecture: what does the organisation do?
- Data and information architecture: which data is processed?
- Application architecture: which systems support this?
- Technical architecture: which infrastructure is required?
These align well with Dutch frameworks such as NORA, GEMMA, MARIJ or WILMA.
🏛 TOGAF in the public sector or an OT context
Although TOGAF is widely used in IT enterprises, it is also applicable to:
| Domain | Application of TOGAF |
|---|---|
| Government architectures | TOGAF methodology helps with the further development of the NORA family |
| OT environments | Structuring OT architecture and OT convergence |
| Central government bodies | Adoption of TOGAF components in MARIJ, projects or sourcing |
| Water authorities/municipalities | Use of ADM for migration to case management or cloud |
TOGAF is framework-oriented: you adapt it; you do not follow it blindly.
📚 TOGAF vs. other frameworks
| Framework | Focus | Relationship with TOGAF |
|---|---|---|
| NORA | Dutch public sector | Can fill in TOGAF’s principles and models |
| COBIT | IT governance and control | Aligns with TOGAF’s governance component |
| ArchiMate | Modelling language, developed by The Open Group | Often used together with TOGAF |
| ITIL | IT service management | Complementary to TOGAF’s execution and management |
📌 In summary
TOGAF is a powerful framework for structurally building and managing enterprise architecture. It supports the design of processes, data, applications and technology — from vision to migration — and can be applied in IT, public sector and OT contexts alike.