Enterprise software development is loaded with a plethora of tools where the IT think-tank scratches their heads in order to analyze and pick the right tool that can pass the test of time. In projects where the scope of a domain is not too high, too much planning and analysis are not taken seriously as the code-base can be changed frequently due to the project size. The code is not written in accordance with the best software engineering principles and practices as their optimal benefit cannot be understood in smaller applications.

However, the development of big enterprise project cannot take such liberties where a little mismanagement in the design may result in a catastrophe of greater proportions. It may end in millions for damages. Likewise, the right architecture for an enterprise application carries a greater degree of responsibility. An Enterprise Architecture is a methodological outlook that involves the following:

• Management of different human and IT assets for maximum output.
• The type of methods used.
• System functionalities.

Traditionally, Enterprise Architecture has assisted a leadership in finding loopholes in enterprise domain business processes of IT infrastructure and has proved critical in the expansion of domain business. Hence, EA has been highly significant in the optimization and modernization of business processes. However, times are changing and EA’s shortcomings are becoming more noticeable to the industry experts.

Need for Enterprise as a Service

The major problem with an Enterprise Architecture is its lack of feasibility for SMEs –– domains on a smaller scale find it harder to have dedicated enterprise architect, They prefer architects who are specialized in a domain. Last year a study shed light on EA professionals –– the demand of EA professionals rose by 26 percent. With such demands, the enterprise faces a certain challenge: impracticality of hiring full-time EA professionals. A new model has emerged that addressed such concerns. It is called Enterprise architecture as a Service.

Understanding Enterprise Architecture-as-a-Service

The concept behind EAaaS is not dissimilar to other “as­-a-service” model where a specific set of domain business activities and tasks are given to one centralized group of the Enterprise architect. EAaaS denotes all the planning, analysis, and architectural management to that centralized group. So, how exactly is EAaaS bridging the gap for costs?

Domains do not require assistance for their architectures on a 24/7-basis. Therefore, especially for SMEs, an EA professional may not be of use all the time and they can work on other projects. This is where EAaaS makes the biggest impact. In EAaaS, only the consulting required for any EA consulting or service has to be paid. As a result, domains drive out the same value in minimized costs.

Difference between Enterprise Architecture and Enterprise Architecture as a Service

 

Deliverables

When EA and EAaaS are looked side-by-side, deliverability matters. EAaaS denotes to an approach to streamline all the production processes so a high-quality and fully structured system can be developed. EAaaS does not entail vague promises and definitions where a domain business’ integration with IT tools and systems can be deployed through the practicality of each solution.

Mindset

The general mindset of IT leadership refers to a unique approach where deliverables are taken into account in the post-completion of EA. In Enterprise Architecture as a Service, results are generated and provided with the help of services that remain available in the entire production life cycle. Hence, Enterprise Architecture as a Service incorporates results during its entire process –– as opposed to the Enterprise Architecture strategy in which results are created in the end.

Realistic Expectations

Expectations play a great role in the software lifecycle. When domains use Enterprise Architecture, there is a sense of uncertainty about what exactly can be made and how it can be made. Presentations and visualization of IT goals is another thing, and transforming it into a reality for a practical use case is a far greater challenge. For instance, if an EA is being developed for a specific goal, then the required funds may not be collected, resulting in the loss of confidence for the stakeholders.

The important questions are:

• How exactly is your EA making a difference?
• How does it solve a problem in comparison with your rivals?
• Where do you see your solution after a certain time period like a year?

Today, enterprise architecture is being misused by enterprises where the lack of vision is apparent as the maximum output in each phase is not achieved. Some organizations eye compliance when enablement possesses greater significance. Additionally, modern changes to the systems cannot be carried out.

With the service-based model of EA, the game changes where enablement is prioritized in conjunction with necessary changes.

Advantages of Enterprise as a Service

EAaaS is beneficial due to the following advantages.

Accessibility

The fact that a common party manages the EA brings out a common question, “How are we going to access and communicate with the required services, tools, and architects?” The adoption of an EAaaS does not in any way sacrifice accessibility. EAaaS components provide ease-of-access with user-friendly interfaces — including both the automated and human ones.

Modularity

Modular development is necessary. The benefits of modularity may not be too visible in smaller applications, but they are highly beneficial in enterprise development. EAaaS supports modularity, which means that any domain component or process can be updated or changed without any impact on the rest of the system.

Reusability

Similar to modularity, reusability is a necessary ingredient in any software architecture. Reusability refers to repeating pre-existing IT assets. EAaaS brings reusability to the scene, which can quicken the development lifecycle.

Flexibility

Flexibility refers to the dynamic quality of architectural design. Some situations require heavy changes in the code-base and architectural design where lack of flexibility consumes considerable time.

Portability

Portability relates to the use of architecture’s components to be deployed for other applications. EAaaS helps to port specific modules of a system to a different system, which can increase the pace of deliverables.

Due to the above-mentioned advantages, applications built using EAaaS can be fast-tracked and deployed timely, making it possible to meet all the project deadlines. Likewise, software engineering’s core principles and approaches can be followed in their full spirit and can help in the crafting of high-quality code.