How does Governance differ from Architecture Governance?

Governance encompasses a wide range of policies, practices, and frameworks that guide an organization in achieving its objectives, managing risks, and ensuring accountability across all areas, including operations and IT. It generally refers to the overarching strategies and structures in place at the organizational level.

Architecture Governance, however, is a specialized subset of governance that focuses specifically on the architecture-related aspects of an organization. It guides how architectural decisions align with governance policies and the strategic goals of the organization. While governance looks broadly at all organizational functions, Architecture Governance zeroes in on the standards, principles, and processes that ensure the integrity, quality, and alignment of the architectural framework with business objectives.

The distinction is significant; while both governance and Architecture Governance aim to ensure effective decision-making, Architecture Governance applies specifically to the architecture domain. It includes frameworks and practices that support the planning, implementation, and management of architectural components.

Understanding this separation helps clarify that Architecture Governance is not simply an expanded form of governance; rather, it operates within the broader governance framework while addressing the unique needs and requirements of the organization's architecture practices.