How do you fix gaps in your solution architecture?

1 Define the scope and context

The first step to fix gaps in your solution architecture is to define the scope and context of your solution. What are the objectives, requirements, constraints, and assumptions of your project? Who are the users, customers, and other stakeholders involved? What are the existing systems, processes, and standards that you need to consider? By clarifying the scope and context, you can establish a clear baseline and boundaries for your solution architecture.

2 Use multiple viewpoints and domains

The second step to fix gaps in your solution architecture is to use multiple viewpoints and domains to analyze and communicate your solution. Viewpoints are the perspectives from which you describe your solution, such as functional, structural, behavioral, or quality. Domains are the areas of concern that you address in your solution, such as business, information, application, or technology. By using multiple viewpoints and domains, you can cover different aspects and levels of detail of your solution and identify any inconsistencies or omissions.

3 Validate and verify your solution

The third step to fix gaps in your solution architecture is to validate and verify your solution against the scope and context, the viewpoints and domains, and the stakeholder expectations. Validation is the process of checking whether your solution meets the needs and goals of the project. Verification is the process of checking whether your solution conforms to the specifications and standards of the project. By validating and verifying your solution, you can ensure its accuracy, completeness, and feasibility.

4 Solicit feedback and collaboration

The fourth step to fix gaps in your solution architecture is to solicit feedback and collaboration from your stakeholders, peers, and experts. Feedback is the input and opinions that you receive from others about your solution. Collaboration is the act of working with others to improve your solution. By soliciting feedback and collaboration, you can gain new insights, perspectives, and ideas that can help you fill the gaps in your solution architecture.

5 Document and communicate your solution

The fifth step to fix gaps in your solution architecture is to document and communicate your solution to your stakeholders, users, and customers. Documentation is the written or visual representation of your solution that explains its rationale, structure, behavior, and quality. Communication is the act of sharing and presenting your solution to others in an understandable and convincing way. By documenting and communicating your solution, you can ensure its transparency, traceability, and acceptance.

6 Monitor and update your solution

The sixth step to fix gaps in your solution architecture is to monitor and update your solution as the project progresses and changes. Monitoring is the process of measuring and evaluating the performance, outcomes, and impacts of your solution. Updating is the process of modifying and improving your solution based on the feedback, changes, and lessons learned. By monitoring and updating your solution, you can keep it relevant, effective, and adaptable.

7 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?