How do you conduct a gap analysis between the baseline and target architectures in TOGAF?

1 Step 1: Define the scope and criteria

The first step in conducting a gap analysis is to define the scope and criteria of your analysis. This means you need to decide what aspects of your architecture you want to compare, such as domains, layers, views, or services. You also need to establish the criteria for measuring the gaps, such as performance, cost, quality, or compliance. You can use the Architecture Building Blocks (ABBs) and the Requirements Catalog from the previous phases of TOGAF as inputs for this step.

2 Step 2: Analyze the baseline architecture

The second step in conducting a gap analysis is to analyze the baseline architecture, which is the current state of your architecture. You need to assess the strengths and weaknesses of your existing architecture, as well as the opportunities and threats that may affect it. You can use various techniques, such as SWOT analysis, maturity models, or benchmarking, to evaluate your baseline architecture. You can also use the Architecture Landscape and the Architecture Repository from TOGAF as sources of information for this step.

3 Step 3: Analyze the target architecture

The third step in conducting a gap analysis is to analyze the target architecture, which is the desired state of your architecture. You need to identify the key features and benefits of your target architecture, as well as the risks and challenges that may hinder it. You can use various techniques, such as gap identification, value proposition, or scenario analysis, to evaluate your target architecture. You can also use the Architecture Vision and the Architecture Definition from TOGAF as inputs for this step.

4 Step 4: Identify and prioritize the gaps

The fourth and final step in conducting a gap analysis is to identify and prioritize the gaps between the baseline and target architectures. A gap is any difference or discrepancy that needs to be addressed or resolved to achieve the target architecture. You need to list all the gaps that you have found, and classify them according to their type, impact, urgency, and feasibility. You can use various techniques, such as gap matrix, gap map, or gap radar, to visualize and prioritize your gaps. You can also use the Gap Analysis document and the Architecture Requirements Specification from TOGAF as outputs for this step.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?