University of Twente Student Theses
An agile enterprise architecture methodology for digital transformation
Visweswara, Suraj (2023) An agile enterprise architecture methodology for digital transformation.
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| Abstract: | In the field of enterprise architecture (EA), traditional frameworks have followed a linear, stepwise process akin to the waterfall model in software development, which limits flexibility once a phase is completed. This thesis identifies a gap in the literature regarding a methodology that aligns the principles of agile software development, as outlined in the Agile Manifesto, with the discipline of enterprise architecture. The primary research question addressed in this study is: "How to design a methodology that satisfies agile practices or principles so that companies can better transform digitally using enterprise architecture?" The Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM) guides the research process, leading to the development of the "Agile Enterprise Architecture Development Method" (AEA-DM) as the proposed methodology. By incorporating modified agile principles that address the limitations of the waterfall approach, it is hypothesized that merging these two disciplines can enhance digital transformation outcomes compared to current EA practices. The study’s main objective is to design a comprehensive and flexible methodology for constructing an agile enterprise architecture to facilitate digital transformation. To achieve this, the research questions are divided into three key objectives, all of which are successfully accomplished. The literature review focuses on exploring agile practices that benefit enterprise architecture management during digital transformation. Noteworthy practices identified include incremental development, collaboration, customer/stakeholder representation, continuous optimization, and test-driven design. These agile practices are integrated into the AEA-DM to ensure its alignment with agile principles. The AEA-DM is specifically devised as an agile approach for developing enterprise architecture. A process flow diagram is used to provide a clear and structured representation of the methodology, while various team roles are assigned to facilitate agile testing, design of the EA, collaboration and demand management. The workflow encompasses steps such as demand collection, assessment, architecture change analysis, design of EA increment, and test-driven design. By following this methodology, organizations can effectively manage stakeholders’ demands and foster continuous improvement within their enterprise architecture development process. To evaluate the viability of the AEA-DM, a qualitative method, namely a thematic analysis is conducted on interview data obtained from experts in the enterprise architecture and digital transformation field. The evaluation aims to confirm the inclusion of all prerequisites and identify themes that validate the methodology. Valuable feedback received from the interviewees is incorporated into the final modified version of the AEA-DM, further enhancing its effectiveness for future implementation. Therefore, this study provides valuable insights into the design of an agile enterprise architecture methodology and its potential to support digital transformation. By integrating agile practices and incorporating feedback from stakeholders, organizations can leverage enterprise architecture to optimize their IT landscape and drive successful digital transformation initiatives. The AEA-DM serves as a comprehensive and flexible methodology that enables enterprises to navigate the complexities of digital transformation in an agile and efficient manner. Further research and empirical validation of the AEADM, including quantitative analysis and additional interviews or observations, are recommended to strengthen its applicability and broaden its scope of implementation |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Clients: | LeanIX, The Netherlands |
| Faculty: | EEMCS: Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science |
| Programme: | Business Information Technology MSc (60025) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/96720 |
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