PROJECT TITLE :

Beyond the Zachman framework: Problem-oriented system architecture

ABSTRACT :

The year 2012 marks the twenty-fifth anniversary of “A framework for information systems design,” written by John Zachman and revealed in the IBM Systems Journal. The primary part of this paper reviews the Zachman and similar frameworks and concludes that there are a variety of limitations within the framework approach when applied to these days's technology setting and business problems. These include the lack of the matter owner to properly describe a solution, the partitioning approach, and the choice-creating processes within the context of uncertainty and amendment. The second half of this paper analyzes nowadays's issues and allocates them to one of 3 classifications: tame, advanced, and wicked, relying on the degree of certainty and stability of knowledge and selections in each the matter and the solution domains. The ultimate part outlines an approach to downside-solving and design development using techniques borrowed from cybernetics and control theory. It proposes that partitioning should be determined by the nature of the problem and potential solutions; that feedback loops should be implemented in order to control the method; that the architect ought to work across the business downside and answer spaces; and that choices ought to be connected to business price.