Syllabus
Module 1: Introduction and Overview
Learning Objectives
In this opening module, we look at what the ArchiMate standard provides to the business, as well as why it is important to the Enterprise Architecture practitioner and the organization.
We introduce the key characteristics of the ArchiMate 3.0 standard and offer a brief history of the standard since its conception in 2002.
Finally, we look at the custodians of the ArchiMate standard, The Open Group, and how the standard increasingly harmonizes with other standards of The Open Group, such as TOGAF.
Module 2: Certification Program
Learning Objectives
In this module, we take a look at The Open Group’s ArchiMate 3 Certification Program. We learn that it offers certification in three key areas: people, products, and ArchiMate training courses.
The certification for people program uses two levels: Foundation (Level 1) and Practitioner (Level 2). We take an in-depth look at the certification requirements needed for Level 1 and Level 2, as well as the examination conditions and pass marks.
Module 3: Basic Concepts of EA and ArchiMate
Learning Objectives
This module introduces the basic concepts of Enterprise Architecture and the ArchiMate language.
We will be looking at the purpose and benefits of Enterprise Architecture, the ArchiMate standard’s relationship with Enterprise Architecture, the architectural domains covered by ArchiMate, and how they map to the TOGAF standard.
We also discuss the positioning of the ArchiMate framework with other modeling languages and modeling concepts.
Module 4: Language Structure
Learning Objectives
In Module Four, "Language Structure", we begin by looking at the framework’s design considerations and top-level language structure, moving on to its layers and framework.
We complete the topic with studies of abstraction, concepts and notations, nesting, use of color, and notational cues.
Module 5: Generic Metamodel
Learning Objectives
In this module, we will take a closer look at the ArchiMate generic metamodel and then turn our attention to relationships. When dealing with the metamodel, we will cover Behavior and Structure Elements as well as Specializations.
We will also study Motivation Elements, Strategy Elements, and Composite Elements.
Module 6: ArchiMate Relationships
In addition to the generic elements outlined in Module five, the ArchiMate language also defines a core set of generic relationships. Each of these relationships can connect a predefined set of source and target concepts.
This module covers ArchiMate’s core set of generic relationships, including Structural and dynamic relationships, Grouping, Junction, and Specialization relationships.
Module 7: Motivation and Strategy Elements
Learning Objectives
In module seven, we look at both the Motivation and Strategy Elements in ArchiMate 3.
We will start by looking at the Motivation elements, which are used to model the motivations or reasons that guide the design or change of an Enterprise Architecture.
We will begin with the Stakeholder, Driver, and Assessment elements, followed by Goal, Outcome, Principle, Requirement, and Constraint, before concluding our study of the Motivation Elements with Meaning and Value.
We will then turn our attention to the Strategy Elements, namely Resource, Capability, and Course of Action.
Module 8: The Business Layer
Learning Objectives
In this module, we will explore the elements that make up the business layer in the ArchiMate Framework. The elements can be split into the active, behavior, and passive aspects. Other elements also fall into the composite category.
Module 9: The Application Layer
Learning Objectives
This module will explore the elements that make up the application layer in the ArchiMate Framework.
Module 10: The Technology Layer
Learning Objectives
In module 10, we will explore the elements that make up the Technology layer in the ArchiMate Framework.
Module 11: Physical Elements
Learning Objectives
In module 11, we look at the physical elements, namely the Active Structure elements Equipment, Facility, and Distribution Network, the Behavior elements, and the Passive Structure Element (‘Material’).
Module 12: Relationships Between Core Layers
Learning Objectives
A central issue in Enterprise Architecture is business-IT alignment and how these layers can be matched. This module describes the relationships that the ArchiMate language employs to denote this alignment, as well as the links between business, applications, and technology.
Module 13: Implementation and Migration Elements
Learning Objectives
In this module, we look at the Implementation and Migration Elements and their Relationships.
We define a number of Implementation and Migration elements. We also study Relationships and Cross-aspect Dependencies.
Module 14: Stakeholders, Views, and Viewpoints
Learning Objectives
The ArchiMate language provides a flexible approach in which architects and other stakeholders can use their own views on the Enterprise Architecture. In this approach, views are specified by viewpoints.
Viewpoints define abstractions on the set of models representing the Enterprise Architecture, each aimed at a particular type of stakeholder and addressing a particular set of concerns.
Viewpoints can be used to view certain aspects in isolation and to relate two or more aspects. In this module, we will address Stakeholders and Concerns, Views and Viewpoints, The Viewpoint Mechanism, Defining and Classifying Viewpoints, and Creating the View.
Module 15: Language Customization
Learning Objectives
The ArchiMate language contains the basic elements and relationships that serve general EA modeling purposes only.
However, the language should also be able to support other, more specific, purposes, such as types of model analysis, the communication of architectures, and those of a certain domain (for example, the financial sector).
We, therefore, need a means of customizing the language, without burdening it with a lot of additional material. This module is therefore devoted to the customization mechanisms in ArchiMate 3.
Module 16: Tool Support for ArchiMate
Learning Objectives
This module will help briefly explain how ArchiMate Certified Tools can be used to support EA modeling and analysis with ArchiMate 3.
FAQs
How can ArchiMate help enterprise architects?
ArchiMate helps enterprise architects by giving them a graphical language for planning, creating, and presenting architectures.
ArchiMate models can also range in complexity, allowing users to create different versions of the same architecture for audiences with varying levels of knowledge.
How does ArchiMate work?
ArchiMate essentially provides users with a set of instructions for visually communicating EA concepts. These models are far easier to interpret than most enterprise architecture frameworks, giving stakeholders the perspective to make the best decisions possible.
Who can use ArchiMate?
ArchiMate can be used by anyone with knowledge of enterprise architecture, though it is most often utilized by TOGAF practitioners.
How can ArchiMate benefit businesses?
ArchiMate makes EA concepts and diagrams much clearer to stakeholders and decision-makers, allowing them to make well-informed choices.
It also helps EA practitioners to communicate and collaborate when they all understand the ArchiMate language.
How much is an ArchiMate certification worth?
ArchiMate certifications can be extremely advantageous for career enterprise architects. Not only can it help them utilize frameworks like TOGAF, but it can also create networking opportunities and help them win roles with higher pay and more responsibilities.
What do I need to know about the ArchiMate exams?
The ArchiMate Foundation exam is a closed-book, consists of 40 questions, lasts 60 minutes, and has a pass-mark of 60%.
The ArchiMate Practitioner exam is open-book, features eight questions, lasts 90 minutes, and has a pass-mark of 70%.
What is EA modeling?
EA graphical 'modeling languages' are used to explain enterprise architecture concepts to audiences such as stakeholders or IT managers. This makes them easier to follow.
How can ArchiMate help enterprise architects?
ArchiMate helps enterprise architects by giving them a graphical language for planning, creating, and presenting architectures. ArchiMate models can also range in complexity, allowing users to create different versions of the same architecture for audiences with varying levels of knowledge.
What is The Open Group?
The Open Group is the business consortium behind several widely-used corporate methodologies and frameworks, including ArchiMate, TOGAF, and IT4IT
What other frameworks can complement ArchiMate?
ArchiMate and TOGAF were both created by The Open Group, and complement each other extremely well.
