Elevate Platform Engineering Via Architectural Governance — 2/2
In the previous blog of Elevate Platform Engineering series, we reviewed some of the notable aspects of Architectural Excellence.
In this article, we define and highlight the importance of Architectural Governance and propose a framework to layout fundamental set of practices and policies to increase productivity and efficiency. Although this working model is provided in a generic sense while aligning with different kinds of architecture (such as, business, data, information system or technology), yet it may require suitable updates on need basis.
Governance Framework
1. Define Governance Objectives:
Clearly articulate the objectives of software architecture governance. Understand the goals, constraints, and expectations that the governance framework should address. This may include aspects such as alignment with business objectives, risk management, and adherence to industry standards.
2. Establish Governance Bodies:
Form governance bodies responsible for overseeing software architecture decisions. This may include an Architecture Review Board (ARB) or a similar group. Define the roles, responsibilities, and decision-making authority of these bodies.
3. Define Governance Processes:
Develop and document governance processes that outline how software architecture decisions will be made, reviewed, and approved. Define the stages of the software development lifecycle where architectural decisions will be addressed.
4. Identify Decision-Making Criteria:
Specify the criteria and factors that will influence architectural decisions. This may include considerations such as scalability, security, performance, compliance, and alignment with organizational objectives. Clearly define how these criteria will be evaluated.
5. Establish Architecture Principles:
Define a set of architecture principles that guide decision-making and design. These principles should reflect the organization’s values and goals. Examples may include modularity, scalability, and adherence to industry standards.
6. Create Architectural Standards:
Develop and communicate architectural standards that define preferred technologies, patterns, and practices. These standards provide a reference for development teams to ensure consistency across projects.
7. Implement Design Reviews:
Introduce design reviews as part of the software development process. Conduct regular reviews of architecture and design decisions to ensure they align with governance principles and standards. Use the reviews to provide feedback and guidance to development teams.
8. Documentation Standards:
Define standards for documenting software architecture, design decisions, and technical specifications. Ensure that documentation is clear, comprehensive, and accessible to relevant stakeholders.
9. Training and Awareness:
Provide training sessions to development teams on the established governance processes, principles, and standards. Foster awareness of the importance of adhering to governance guidelines.
10. Tooling and Automation:
Implement tools and automation to support governance processes. This may include tools for code analysis, architectural validation, and documentation generation. Automation can help enforce standards and streamline governance activities.
11. Risk Management:
Integrate risk management practices into the governance framework. Identify potential risks associated with architectural decisions and establish mechanisms for mitigating or managing these risks.
12. Continuous Improvement:
Establish a feedback loop for continuous improvement. Regularly review and update governance processes, principles, and standards based on lessons learned, evolving technologies, and changes in organizational priorities.
13. Communication Channels:
Establish clear communication channels for architects and development teams to seek guidance and clarification on architectural decisions. Foster open communication to address challenges and promote collaboration.
14. Measure and Monitor:
Define key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of software architecture governance. Monitor adherence to standards, the success of design reviews, and the impact on project outcomes.
15. Enforce Accountability:
Clearly define roles and responsibilities within the governance framework. Hold teams accountable for adhering to governance processes and standards. Establish consequences for non-compliance, if necessary.
By systematically implementing these steps, organizations can create a robust software architecture governance framework that ensures alignment with business objectives, promotes consistency, and manages architectural risk effectively.
