How can you align program dependencies with your organization's enterprise architecture?

1 Understand the EA framework

Before you start planning and managing your program, you need to understand the EA framework of your organization. This is the set of principles, standards, models, and tools that guide the development and implementation of EA. The EA framework defines the scope, domains, layers, views, and stakeholders of the EA. It also provides the methods and techniques for analyzing, documenting, communicating, and governing the EA. By understanding the EA framework, you can identify the relevant EA artifacts, such as business capabilities, processes, services, applications, data, and infrastructure, that your program depends on or affects.

2 Map the program dependencies

Once you have a clear picture of the EA framework, you can map the program dependencies to the EA artifacts. This means creating a visual representation of how the components, deliverables, activities, or outcomes of your program relate to the EA artifacts. You can use different techniques, such as dependency structure matrix, network diagram, or value stream map, to map the program dependencies. The purpose of mapping the program dependencies is to identify the dependencies' types, directions, impacts, and risks. For example, you can classify the dependencies as functional, technical, temporal, or resource-based. You can also assess the dependencies' criticality, priority, and feasibility.

3 Align the program dependencies

After you have mapped the program dependencies, you can align them with the EA artifacts. This means ensuring that the program dependencies are consistent, coherent, and compatible with the EA artifacts. You can use different methods, such as gap analysis, alignment matrix, or maturity assessment, to align the program dependencies . The goal of aligning the program dependencies is to resolve any conflicts, gaps, or redundancies between the program dependencies and the EA artifacts. For example, you can align the program dependencies with the EA principles, standards, and guidelines. You can also align the program dependencies with the EA vision, goals, and roadmap.

4 Communicate the program dependencies

Finally, you have to communicate the program dependencies to the relevant EA stakeholders. These are the people who have an interest or influence in the EA or the program. They can be internal or external, such as business owners, sponsors, executives, managers, users, customers, partners, or regulators. You can use different channels, such as reports, presentations, dashboards, or workshops, to communicate the program dependencies. The aim of communicating the program dependencies is to inform, persuade, and engage the EA stakeholders. For example, you can communicate the program dependencies' benefits, costs, and risks. You can also communicate the program dependencies' assumptions, issues, and changes.