Introduction
“Enterprise Architecture As Strategy: Creating a Foundation for Business Execution” by Jeanne W. Ross, Peter Weill, and David Robertson focuses on how organizations can create a robust foundation for business execution through effective enterprise architecture (EA). The book argues that a well-considered enterprise architecture aligns an organization’s strategy with its IT infrastructure to ensure cohesive and efficient operations. Here is a structured summary of the major points discussed in the book, along with concrete actions and examples.

Major Point: Enterprise Architecture (EA) is not just an IT concern but a strategic enabler that ensures business and IT alignment.
– Action: Shift the perception of EA from a purely technical domain to a strategic role that influences the entire business.
– Example: The book cites the case of MetLife, which aligned its EA to better understand customers and improve service delivery.

Major Point: Businesses should identify their operating model, which describes how a company delivers value to customers based on their unique strategy. The four models are:
– Coordination
– Unification
– Diversification
– Replication

Major Point: The foundation for execution is built on two critical components:
– An inclined digitized platform that offers necessary operational efficiencies.
– A robust enterprise architecture that supports this infrastructure.

Major Point: Core diagrams are visual representations that succinctly describe critical business processes and their IT dependencies.
– Action: Create core diagrams to capture and communicate the strategic blueprint of the company’s operations and IT architecture.
– Example: The book elaborates on UPS’s application of core diagrams to streamline its logistics operations, enhancing efficiency and service quality.

Major Point: Governance models that define decision rights and accountability are essential to align EA with business strategy.
– Action: Establish a governance framework that promotes consistent decision-making and accountability.
– Example: Cisco’s governance framework enabled the firm to decentralize decision-making while maintaining global standards.

Major Point: EA must be incorporated into the strategic planning process to bridge the gap between strategic vision and execution.
– Action: Integrate EA processes into annual strategic planning cycles.
– Example: At Carle Clinic Association, alignment of IT enabled better patient care through integrated information systems.

Major Point: The IT engagement model defines how IT interacts with the business to support and innovate.
– Action: Develop an IT engagement model that fosters continual dialogue and partnership between IT and business units.
– Example: CEMEX implemented a robust IT engagement model to streamline production and supply chain processes, allowing for greater agility in responding to market changes.

Major Point: Using models like CMMI helps in assessing and enhancing the maturity of the enterprise architecture and processes.
– Action: Assess the maturity of the organization’s architecture using CMMI and plan for gradual improvements.
– Example: State Street’s maturity assessment led to better risk management frameworks across its operations.

Major Point: Architecture review boards are essential for maintaining the integrity and alignment of EA with the strategic goals.
– Action: Establish an architecture review board to ensure continuous alignment and review of EA initiatives.
– Example: Kaiser Permanente used an architecture review board to oversee EA-related projects, ensuring they aligned with their strategic objectives.

Major Point: Building competencies and skills within the organization is crucial for sustaining enterprise architecture.
– Action: Implement continual training and development programs focused on building EA knowledge and skills.
– Example: Intel Corporation’s comprehensive EA training initiatives helped build internal capabilities, driving innovation and process improvements.

“Enterprise Architecture As Strategy” emphasizes that an effective enterprise architecture is instrumental in executing business strategy. By understanding the enterprise architecture’s strategic role, choosing the right operating model, establishing solid governance, and integrating EA into strategic planning, organizations can significantly enhance their ability to execute their strategies effectively. Practical steps, supported by real-world examples, offer a roadmap for companies aiming to build a reliable and agile foundation for business execution.