Case Study: Zachman in Practice

Introduction

The Zachman Framework is a structured way of viewing and defining an enterprise architecture. This lesson explores the application of the Zachman Framework through a detailed case study.

Zachman Framework Overview

The Zachman Framework is a 2D classification schema for organizing the various artifacts of an enterprise architecture, consisting of six communication interrogatives and six perspectives.

• What (Data)
• How (Function)
• Where (Network)
• Who (People)
• When (Time)
• Why (Motivation)

Each of these interrogatives can be viewed from six different perspectives: Planner, Owner, Designer, Builder, Subcontractor, and Functioning System.

The Case Study

In this section, we will outline a fictional company, "TechCorp", that successfully implemented the Zachman Framework.

Background

TechCorp is a medium-sized software development firm seeking to improve its overall architecture to enhance productivity and reduce redundancies.

Implementation Steps

1. Identify Stakeholders: Engage with all stakeholders to gather their requirements.
2. Define Scope: Clearly outline the boundaries of the architecture project.
3. Map Artifacts: Using the Zachman Framework, categorize existing artifacts.
4. Develop Models: Create models based on the categorized artifacts.
5. Implement Changes: Start implementing changes based on the developed models.
6. Review and Adapt: Continuously review and adapt the architecture as needed.

Example Code Snippet

Below is a simple representation of how TechCorp might define its data architecture in terms of the Zachman Framework.

class DataEntity {
    private String id;
    private String name;
    
    // Getters and Setters
    public String getId() {
        return id;
    }
    
    public void setId(String id) {
        this.id = id;
    }
    
    public String getName() {
        return name;
    }
    
    public void setName(String name) {
        this.name = name;
    }
}
            

Best Practices

• Engage all stakeholders early in the process.
• Maintain clear documentation of all artifacts.
• Regularly review the architecture to ensure it remains relevant.
• Foster a culture of collaboration among teams.

FAQ