EA Analysis and Design Element #2: EA Components
EA components are changeable goals, processes, standards, and resources that may extend enterprise-wide or be contained within a specific line of business or segment. Examples of components include strategic goals and initiatives; business products and services; information flows, knowledge warehouses, and data objects; information systems, software applications, enterprise resource programs, and web sites; voice, data, and video networks; and supporting infrastructure including buildings, server ROOMS, wiring runs/closets, and capital equipment. Figure 1-8 on the next page provides examples of vertical and crosscutting EA components at each level of the EA³ Cube framework, and Chapter 6 provides additional details.
Key Term: Vertical Component
A vertical component is a changeable goal, process, program, or resource (equipment, systems, data, etc.) that serves one line of business.
Key Term: Horizontal (Crosscutting) Component
A horizontal (or crosscutting) component is a changeable goal, process, program, or resource that serves several lines of business. Examples include email and administrative support systems that serve the whole enterprise.