What is the primary purpose of an Architecture Vision Document?

The primary purpose of an Architecture Vision Document is to encapsulate high-level goals and stakeholder concerns. This document serves as a foundational piece in the architecture development process by articulating the overarching vision and objectives that guide the architecture efforts. It ensures that all stakeholders have a clear understanding of what the architecture aims to achieve and reflects their needs and expectations.

By focusing on high-level goals, the document provides direction and alignment among various stakeholders, including business leaders, IT teams, and other parties involved in the architecture initiative. This clarity is essential for ensuring that subsequent architectural work, such as detailed designs and implementations, aligns with the defined vision.

In contrast, while it may be necessary to address regulatory frameworks or budget considerations in the larger context of architecture governance, the Architecture Vision Document itself is not primarily meant to serve those purposes. Its role is to establish a shared vision rather than to delve into specific technical requirements or financial justifications.