FRAMEWORK DETAIL
We use TOGAF ADM as a backbone — but apply it in a lean, outcome- oriented way so you get clarity, roadmaps, and governance without drowning in paperwork.
The TOGAF Architecture Development Method (ADM) is a step-by-step approach for developing, governing, and evolving enterprise architecture. It provides a repeatable structure to move from strategic intent to concrete change — across business, data, application, and technology.
At Nexinc, we use TOGAF ADM as a flexible backbone, not a rigid checklist. We focus on the minimum set of activities and artifacts needed to:
TOGAF ADM is often visualized as a circle: Preliminary, Phases A–H, with Requirements Management at the center. Below is a Nexinc blue version of that view.
TOGAF® ADM PHASES
Continuous hub managing architecture requirements across all phases.
Nexinc uses TOGAF ADM in a “just enough” way — focusing on the minimal set of activities and artifacts needed to drive real decisions and governance.
PRELIMINARY
Define EA charter, scope, stakeholders, decision rights, and collaboration model. Clarify “why EA exists” and where it adds value in your organization.
PHASE A
Co-create a concise architecture vision, principles, and success criteria. Identify key value streams, capabilities, and target outcomes that matter to business sponsors.
PHASE B
Model capabilities, processes, and organization roles. Highlight pain points and investment hotspots — often integrating BIZBOK capability/value stream views.
PHASE C
Describe application and data architectures: key systems, integration patterns, master data domains, and information flows. We keep this at a level that business and IT can both understand.
PHASE D
Map infrastructure, platforms, and technology standards. Clarify cloud strategy, security guardrails, and technical reference patterns for teams.
PHASE E
Group changes into initiatives and solution building blocks. We identify quick wins vs. structural changes and link them to capabilities and KPIs.
PHASE F
Create transition architectures and a sequenced roadmap. Align with budget cycles, resource capacity, and dependency constraints.
PHASE G
Embed EA into project delivery: solution reviews, architecture decision records (ADRs), and clear design guardrails for teams.
PHASE H
Keep the architecture living: manage exceptions, technical debt, and new requirements. Ensure the EA model reflects reality — not PowerPoint.
REQUIREMENTS MGMT
Capture, refine, and trace architecture requirements across all phases. We align them to capabilities, solutions, and projects so nothing gets lost.
We rarely run a “full textbook TOGAF” implementation. Instead, we tailor ADM to your context, maturity, and timelines. The goal is to deliver momentum in 90 days, and a repeatable EA practice for the long term.
Depending on your needs and timeline, a TOGAF-aligned engagement typically produces a curated set of artifacts — each with a clear owner and decision purpose.
If you want the structure of TOGAF, but in a practical, business- oriented way, we should talk. We can start with a focused 30-minute discovery call to understand your current EA maturity and priorities.
