What is Baseline Architecture?

Baseline Architecture refers to the current state of enterprise architecture at a specific point in time. It provides a clear and accurate snapshot of the existing systems, processes, technologies, and relationships within the organization. This understanding is essential for organizations as it establishes a reference point from which future architectural changes, improvements, or transformations can be measured and planned.

By having a well-defined baseline architecture, organizations can identify existing capabilities and deficiencies, making it easier to develop a roadmap toward the desired future architecture. This also aids in understanding how to effectively align business strategies with IT capabilities.

Understanding the baseline architecture is crucial for various stakeholders as it serves as the foundation for developing a target architecture and for making informed decisions regarding investment and resource allocation in technology. It is instrumental in risk assessment and in outlining necessary adjustments to move towards the desired future state of the architecture.