This week we took a closer look at the different applications that are used within the organization we are examining. Last week we had to identify the applications that are used, but this week we had to scrutinize the application’s functionality, technical capabilities, process issues and costs. This is an excellent approach to examining applications because it evaluates each application individually against a standardized rating scale. This allows districts to determine which applications should receive immediate focus for improvements or replacements. This is the primary reason for using Enterprise Architecture in general as well. EA allows districts to examine what they currently have in place (current state) so they can look forward to what they need to improve (future state).
Breaking down each part of the EA of a district is extremely helpful for anyone, but especially helpful to current and future leaders. Often times staff can see that there are problems within a district. Sometimes these problems can be identified, but not always. From there, problem solving has to occur to make improvements and fix the problems. With an entire organizational structure, this task can be a daunting one. Using EA is a highly structured way for leaders to examine their current state of processes and the areas for improvement. The specific way of outlining each aspect of the organization provides a detailed view of each part of the organization that contributes to the whole. This results in informed decision making. Without a thorough examination of the current state of the organization, decisions to improve the organization may be too narrowly focused or will not take into account the outcomes of decisions.
Throughout the work I have done in this class, I can see how valuable EA is for making improvements within organizations. Honestly, my first few weeks reading about and discussing EA were difficult. I felt like it was such an abstract term that I could not fully grasp. After eight weeks of assignments and readings that have allowed me to directly apply what I have learned to a real organization, I am gaining a much better understanding of EA. I think the assignments will not only prepare me to apply what I’ve learned to different organizations, but it will equip me with some solid recommendations for improvements in my district.
Breaking down each part of the EA of a district is extremely helpful for anyone, but especially helpful to current and future leaders. Often times staff can see that there are problems within a district. Sometimes these problems can be identified, but not always. From there, problem solving has to occur to make improvements and fix the problems. With an entire organizational structure, this task can be a daunting one. Using EA is a highly structured way for leaders to examine their current state of processes and the areas for improvement. The specific way of outlining each aspect of the organization provides a detailed view of each part of the organization that contributes to the whole. This results in informed decision making. Without a thorough examination of the current state of the organization, decisions to improve the organization may be too narrowly focused or will not take into account the outcomes of decisions.
Throughout the work I have done in this class, I can see how valuable EA is for making improvements within organizations. Honestly, my first few weeks reading about and discussing EA were difficult. I felt like it was such an abstract term that I could not fully grasp. After eight weeks of assignments and readings that have allowed me to directly apply what I have learned to a real organization, I am gaining a much better understanding of EA. I think the assignments will not only prepare me to apply what I’ve learned to different organizations, but it will equip me with some solid recommendations for improvements in my district.