ITDDS Data: PO2 Define the Information Architecture

The information architecture function creates and regularly updates a business information model and defines the appropriate systems to optimize the use of this information. This encompasses the development of a corporate data dictionary with the organization data syntax rules, data classification scheme and security levels. This process improves the quality of management decision making by making sure that reliable and secure information is provided, and it enables rationalizing information systems resources to appropriately match business strategies. This IT process is also needed to increase accountability for the integrity and security of data and to enhance the effectiveness and control of sharing information across applications and entities.

Control over the IT process of Define the Information Architecture that satisfies the business requirement for IT of

being agile in responding to requirements, to provide reliable and consistent information and to seamlessly integrating applications into business processes

by focusing on

the establishment of an enterprise data model that incorporates a data classification scheme to ensure the integrity and consistency of all data

is achieved by

Assuring the accuracy of the information architecture and data model
Assigning data ownership
Classifying information using an agreed-upon classification scheme

and is measured by

Percent of redundant/duplicate data elements
Percent of applications not complying with the information architecture methodology used by the enterprise
Frequency of data validation activities

Management of the process of Define the Information Architecture that satisfies the business requirement for IT of being agile in responding to requirements, to provide reliable and consistent information, and to seamlessly integrate applications into business processes is:

1 Non-existent
2 Initial/Ad Hoc
3 Repeatable but Intuitive
4 Defined
5 Managed and Measurable
6 Optimized

Benchmarks/Guidelines for Scoring

1 Non-existent when
There is no awareness of the importance of the information architecture for the organization. The knowledge, expertise and responsibilities necessary to develop this architecture do not exist in the organization.
2 Initial/Ad Hoc when
Management recognizes the need for an information architecture. Development of some components of an information architecture is occurring on an ad hoc basis. The definitions address data, rather than information, and are driven by application software vendor offerings. There is inconsistent and sporadic communication of the need for an information architecture.
3 Repeatable but Intuitive when
An information architecture process emerges and similar, though informal and intuitive, procedures are followed by different individuals within the organization. Staff obtain their skills in building the information architecture through hands-on experience and repeated application of techniques. Tactical requirements drive the development of information architecture components by individual staff members.
4 Defined when
The importance of the information architecture is understood and accepted, and responsibility for its delivery is assigned and clearly communicated. Related procedures, tools and techniques, although not sophisticated, have been standardised and documented and are part of informal training activities. Basic information architecture policies have been developed, including some strategic requirements, but compliance with policies, standards and tools is not consistently enforced. A formally defined data administration function is in place, setting organisation-wide standards, and is beginning to report on the delivery and use of the information architecture. Automated tools are beginning to be employed, but the processes and rules used are defined by database software vendor offerings. A formal training plan has been developed, but formalized training is still based on individual initiatives.
5 Managed and Measurable when
The development and enforcement of the information architecture are fully supported by formal methods and techniques. Accountability for the performance of the architecture development process is enforced and success of the information architecture is being measured. Supporting automated tools are widespread, but are not yet integrated. Basic metrics have been identified and a measurement system is in place. The information architecture definition process is proactive and focused on addressing future business needs. The data administration organization is actively involved in all application development efforts, to ensure consistency. An automated repository is fully implemented. More complex data models are being implemented to leverage the information content of the databases. Executive information systems and decision support systems are leveraging the available information.
6 Optimized when
The information architecture is consistently enforced at all levels. The value of the information architecture to the business is continually stressed. IT personnel have the expertise and skills necessary to develop and maintain a robust and responsive information architecture that reflects all the business requirements. The information provided by the information architecture is consistently and extensively applied. Extensive use is made of industry good practices in the development and maintenance of the information architecture, including a continuous improvement process. The strategy for leveraging information through data warehousing and data mining technologies is defined. The information architecture is continuously improving and takes into consideration non-traditional information on processes, organizations and systems.