TOGAF 10 builds on the 9.2 version that brought a mature Architecture Development Method (ADM). One of the biggest changes is a stronger focus on Agile, which has gained tremendous popularity. Additionally, the new version brings with it a new 2-part delivery method. The new delivery method includes TOGAF Fundamentals and TOGAF Series Guides.
TOGAF Fundamentals provides what is called the framework basics. This includes
1. Architecture Development Method (ADM)
2. Architecture Capabilities
3. Governance
Series Guides are now part of the TOGAF framework that includes expanded content related to
- Information security
2. Information
3. Agile Delivery
4. Business Architecture
5. Technology Architecture
Although version 9.2 provided a solid approach to enterprise architecture, TOGAF 10 was developed to improve flexibility without causing disruption to the framework core. Is it better? We would say it provides a modular approach to EA which can be highly beneficial, and this may be the approach moving forward.
While there are significant benefits, unfortunately it may take some time for the new framework approach to be transitioned and adopted. Businesses that are already setup for agile may have an easier time implementing version 10. Other companies that have not may need to solidify the agile framework within the organization before it can realize the full benefits of TOGAF 10. More information about features this new standard bring can be found here.
As TOGAF 9 was released since 2009, and version 9.2, released in 2018 brought major transformation to the framework. Version 10 now brings even more significant enhancements. It has yet to be seen how this new standard matches up to or affects future development of the other predominant EA frameworks. What we do know for certain is that the global permeation of Agile throughout organizations will inevitably cause a shift in the methodologies we adopt.
It is therefore only a matter of time until other EA frameworks include greater focus on Agile. This will allow enterprise architecture to produce even greater and more effective results as a tool for modernization and business transformation. It may also evolve enterprise architecture into a service-oriented type of framework, ideally with reusable methods and artifacts that can one day be utilized among different EA frameworks for a truly universal and standard approach to the discipline.