In the context of evolving enterprise engineering , there are various popular frameworks like Capability Models, Value Streams, and Problem Analysis frameworks that serve specific purposes. Each framework provides a way to organize and manage aspects of a business or project. However, when it comes to offering a comprehensive view of the enterprise, these frameworks often fall short. In this blog, we’ll focus on Capability Models, their relevance within the context of enterprise architecture, and how they compare with the ICMG Enterprise Anatomy Model, which offers a complete and universal approach.
One Enterprise, One Anatomy: The Foundation of the ICMG Model
One Enterprise, One Anatomy: Unlike traditional models that vary based on individual needs or perspectives, the ICMG Anatomy Model introduces the concept that every enterprise, and indeed every project within that enterprise, has just one definitive anatomy. This absolute structure ensures consistency, alignment, and completeness, eliminating gaps and assumptions that often plague Capability Models.
Best Practices vs. Absolute: The Foundation of the Models
Capability Models are typically based on best practices. These best practices reflect the expertise and perspectives of those who designed or implemented the model, but this leads to variability and subjectivity.
While Capability Models are useful in specific scenarios, they are often selective and incomplete. They provide a partial view of a system or process, leaving room for assumptions and missed elements.
Example:Consider a hotel booking management system. One organization might design the capability model focusing on customer-facing processes (e.g., booking and payment), while another might prioritize internal workflows (e.g., availability management). Both are valid best practices for those organizations, but neither gives a complete view of the system. Each model is only as good as the perspective it represents.
In contrast, the ICMG Anatomy Model is absolute and universal.
Much like human anatomy, every project or system follows one definitive structure, ensuring nothing is missed. All elements—Goals/Strategy, Business/Process, System/Models, Technology/Components, Implementation, and Operations—must be addressed. Nothing is optional.
Example:In the hotel booking system using the ICMG Anatomy Model, not only would customer-facing processes like booking and payment be included, but internal processes, technology infrastructure, and how they align with the enterprise’s overall goals would also be addressed. If any element were left out, it could lead to inefficiencies, misalignments, and assumptions that cause operational problems.