Introduction

As part of Four blogs series describing Four Pillars, this blog describes EARBs. 

Enterprise Architecture Review Boards (EARBs) acts as solid foundation of effective governance enabling to achieve enterprises goals and objectives through structured approach to enterprise architecture activities. 

A well-defined roadmap can help to achieve goals, enable enterprise agility and launch new products, speed-up digital transformation and digital experience. (DX) 

Without a governing body that’s dedicated to taking ownership of all the processes involved, it’s pretty tough to keep all of enterprise operations aligned across company or organization.

What Is an Enterprise Architecture Review Board 

EARBs ensure that we as Technology fraternity follow best practices when developing an enterprise architecture. We have the right stakeholders, the right information, understand the work and business requirements and the constraints on successful change. We follow the architecture when we implement changes in our projects.

EARBs ensures that – We follow architecture standards, pattern and best practices and thus embrace the power of governance and unleash the potential of the enterprise architecture of today and tomorrow. 

One can consider enterprise architectural review board a high-level governance strategy that puts more emphasis on the “big picture” of systems, processes, and development.

A governing body, not a decision-making body.

Purpose of an Enterprise Architecture Review Board 

Following stands as some of the purpose of setting-up EARBs –

• Helps in Decision-making – Architecture Alternatives help compare different potential solutions against common criteria
• Improved or better Budget Management 
• Process driven approach 
• Improved Risk Management – Big Picture rather than myopic view 
• Stronger Security Compliance

Enterprise Architecture Review Board Structuring

Typically, the optimum size of an enterprise architecture review board is about 4-5 members. Never to exceed 10. Team reviews or assess the target architecture and compliance assessments following the enterprise architecture governance checklists. Team provides direction and set-up controls while execution of direction and monitoring of controls is with Management covering aspects such as risk, benefit and change. 

Some of the activities of a modern Architecture Review Board

• Facilitate Enabling IT standards
• Maintain Digital Transformation required Integration & Data standards
• Linkage to all levels of agile development
• Focus on issues that cross authority boundaries
• Empowering creativity and innovation from implementation teams
• Leverage principle-based superior architecture

Enterprise Architecture Certification @Zoc

Enterprise Architecture certification at Zoc Learnings will help Architects to comprehend importance of developing various architectures by following ADM life cycle, governed by EARBs. 

Summary

Structured approach to enterprise architecture enables to improve an organization to overcome shortfalls in its execution. With an architecture review board, enterprises that lacks agility or need to expand to a new market, or are making a digital transformation process – all benefit from governance throughout the processes.

FAQs

How often should EARB meetings be held?

EARB meetings should be held regularly, ideally on a predetermined schedule. The frequency may vary depending on the volume of proposed changes and the organization’s needs.

What is the role of the EARB chairperson?

The EARB chairperson is responsible for leading the board’s meetings, ensuring that discussions stay focused, and facilitating decision-making processes.

How can I join an EARB?

To join an EARB, you typically need to demonstrate expertise in a relevant field and receive an invitation from the board or its governing body.

Can EARB decisions be appealed?

Yes, in most organizations, EARB decisions can be appealed through a defined process. This ensures fairness and accountability.

What happens if proposed changes are rejected by the EARB?

If the EARB rejects proposed changes, the proposing team must either revise the proposal to address concerns or seek alternative solutions.

How can I measure the success of my EARB?

Success can be measured through KPIs, such as the percentage of approved proposals successfully implemented and the time taken for decision-making.