Materna: Enterprise Architecture Links Business Objectives with IT Operations

IT service provider Materna-Gruppe highlights the role of enterprise architecture in connecting business objectives with IT operations. Traditionally viewed as cumbersome, Materna suggests that adopting just a few core principles can bring significant transparency and improve operations.

The company explains that enterprise architecture aims to directly link IT functions to overall business goals, unlike frameworks like ITIL which focus more on managing IT infrastructure itself. This approach allows for the identification and description of business processes, assessment of their value and complexity, and recognition of risks. This transparency helps management better understand IT's contribution to business success.

Materna points out that while enterprise architecture requires effort, its benefits are substantial. After identifying processes and aligning IT with them, opportunities for optimization can be sought, creating a framework for future decisions. The company notes that implementing enterprise architecture does not require starting with complex frameworks; simpler tools can also be effective.

Implementation is recommended by testing the approach on one or two business processes first, such as describing the ordering of consumables or a goods delivery chain. Subsequently, the IT processes supporting these business functions are identified and mapped to reveal dependencies and risk chains. This evaluation can then lead to improvements in both processes and the IT environment.