Enterprise architects and stakeholders alignment framework in enterprise architecture development

Abstract

Literature has highlighted the need for an alignment framework to support enterprise architects to align the development process of EA with the stakeholders’ goals. Hence, this study developed an alignment framework to align the EA development process with the stakeholders to produce an agreed architecture. Multiple Perspectives Theory (MPT) was used to develop an initial research model that provided the guidance in data collection and analysis. The Government Architecture Framework (GAF) of the Omani public sector was used as a qualitative case study and 15 interviews conducted with the architects and the stakeholders who participated in the development of GAF. The findings showed that 12 alignment factors influenced the development of GAF which are standardization, development scope, principles, governance, top management support, culture, commitment, awareness, communication, value of EA, change management capability and experience. These factors were used as the base to develop the alignment framework. The framework was validated through a focus group session with GAF architects. As a conclusion, the study has shown that the alignment framework provides a comprehensive understanding for the practitioners and the academicians about the factors and their influences at each EA development step in the public sector of Oman.