What is a key benefit of defining an enterprise architecture?

Defining an enterprise architecture significantly enhances the understanding of business, technology, and governance within an organization. This is crucial because enterprise architecture serves as a comprehensive blueprint that outlines how various components of the organization interrelate and function together. It provides a holistic view that helps stakeholders from different areas—such as business leaders, IT teams, and governance bodies—gain insights into how their roles and responsibilities align with organizational goals.

By establishing a common framework and shared vocabulary, enterprise architecture fosters better communication and collaboration among various departments. As a result, all parties can make informed decisions based on a unified understanding of the organization's architecture. This benefit not only supports strategic planning and resource allocation but also facilitates the identification of opportunities for improvement and innovation.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the fundamental advantages of enterprise architecture. For instance, decreasing collaboration would undermine the very essence of what enterprise architecture aims to achieve. Limiting changes to existing systems and creating a rigid framework do not align with the adaptable nature of enterprise architecture, which is designed to evolve in response to changing business needs and technological advancements. Thus, the key benefit revolves around the enhanced understanding and alignment it fosters among all stakeholders involved.