JISC

Overview

Through use of TOGAF 8, BizzDesign and ArchiMate, this project seeks to define an enterprise architecture focused on the Business Processes and the Systems and Data structures which support them. Roehampton University has a standard best-of-breed structure for its major computer systems, the sort of structure which can, over time, become difficult to change in response to business stimuli. Over the 18 month project Roehampton will carry out reviews of its business processes and computer systems in the context of the TOGAF 8 EA Framework and Service Oriented Architecture. The project will both assist in the evaluation of the methodology in an HE context and provide Roehampton with a more agile business and systems infrastructure.

Aims and objectives

Through use of the TOGAF 8 framework, this project (CAIRO) will define an Enterprise Architecture for Roehampton University. It will provide a Services Orientated approach to the integration of corporate information systems as part of a staged process developing an applications independent architecture for business processes which will simply consume data services. Application systems will become replaceable modular components. It will enable the University to :-

• leverage existing projects through the use of TOGAF templates and concepts
• begin the exploration of the concept of shared services
• contribute significantly from a point of view of experience of real implementation, to the JISC e-framework community

Project methodology

Using a Prince 2 approach, the Cairo project will commence with Workpackage 1 defining the Data and Business Principles which underlie the processes of the University. This will be carried out by the Project Board.

Workpackages 2 and 3 will expand the scope of 2 existing projects, reviewing the business processes and the applications/data infrastructures. These Projects will be carried out by staff trained in the Modelling software BiZZdesign Architect and supported by certified TOGAF 8 practitioners.

Workpackage 4 will develop “Services” based integration between some of the key application systems. This activity will be carried out by Technical Staff already experienced in SOA. Collectively, these 4 work packages equate with the TOGAF Framework and Principles, Information Systems Architecture analysis, the Business Architecture analysis and the development of architectural building blocks.

Anticipated outputs and outcomes

Significant outcomes from the project will be :

• A website detailing progress and work outputs
• Standard Schemas and diagrams for the business and systems architecture based on sector standard systems in widespread use
• Pilot code for 2 or 3 critical system data interfaces using SOA
• Dissemination of experience at sector conferences and seminars e.g. JISC, UCISA, Open Group
• Contribution directly from experience into the JISC Enterprise Architectures, E-Framework and Shared Services initiatives
• Interim and final reports and final dissemination workshop
• Hosting training for other HE institutions
• An effective study on Return on Investment for SOA used in this context

Key Deliverables from the Project will be :

• Definition of Business Goals and Business Drivers
• Statement of Data and Business Principles
• Baseline and “to be” Business and Systems Architecture and building blocks
• Gap Analyses in Business and Systems
• Requirements Management and Issues Register
• Structured Data Requirements and Flows
• Implementation Plan

Technology / Standards used

As far as possible we will adhere to the JISC standards as stated in the JISC Standards catalogue

Lead Institution

• Roehampton University