Information Technology Architecture

Information Technology Architecture or Technology Architectureis the process of development of methodical information technology specifications, models and guidelines, using a variety of Information Technology notations, for example UML, within a coherent Information Technology architecture framework, following formal and informal Information Technology solution, enterprise (EA), and infrastructure architecture processes. These processes have been developed in the past few decades in response to the requirement for a coherent, consistent approach to delivery of information technology capabilities. They have been developed by information technology product vendors and independent consultancies, based on real experiences in the information technology marketplace and collaboration amongst industry stakeholders, for example the Open Group. Best practice Information Technology architecture encourages the use of open technology standards and global technology interoperability. Information Technology (I.T) Architecture can also be called a high-level map or plan of the information assets in an organization, including the physical design of the building that holds the hardware.

Technology architecture associates application components from application architecture with technology components representing software and hardware components. Its components are generally acquired in the marketplace and can be assembled and configured to constitute the enterprise’s technological infrastructure. Technology architecture provides a more concrete view of the way in which application components will be realized and deployed. It enables the migration problems that can arise between the different steps of the IS evolution path to be studied earlier. It provides a more precise means of evaluating responses to constraints (nonfunctional requirements) concerning the IS, notably by estimating hardware and network sizing needs or by setting up server or storage redundancy. Technology architecture concentrates on logistical and location problems related to hardware location, IS management capabilities, and the sites where the different parts of the IS are used. Technology architecture also ensures the delivered application components work together, confirming that the required business integration is supported.