Solution Architecture Concept Workshop
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Solution Architecture Concept Workshop Alan McSweeney
Agenda Objectives • Benefits • Limitations and restrictions • Service activities • Preparation and delivery times • Workshop process • Intended customer audience • Delivery skills • Roles and responsibilities • Job titles and solution architecture concept roles • Location of delivery materials •
November 26, 2009
2
Objectives of Solution Architecture Concept • Provide
the context for understanding the interrelationships of the business and technical components of a solution that is designed to support a company’s business
• Agree
on the fundamental purpose, value, and use of the proposed information system/initiative
• Define
the scope of the solution architecture; the essential components
• Develop
an architectural overview of the solution that will serve as a basis for timely decision making
November 26, 2009
3
Benefits of Solution Architecture Concept •
Develop a practical decision framework for a solution that addresses business, functional, technical, and implementation perspectives. The framework provides linkage information to trace decisions to driving principles.
•
Develop a solution that has a potentially longer life span because the solution is: − More likely to meet the true needs of the customer − Designed to evolve in the directions most likely to occur
•
Optimise a project in scope and effectiveness
•
Ensure the most important aspects of the project are developed and delivered early
•
Give a better understanding of the customer’s business environment and needs November 26, 2009
4
Limitations and Restrictions • Solution
Architecture Concept does not include:
− An in-depth analysis of the customer’s business − A complete blueprint of the solution architecture − Design or implementation of the solution architecture
November 26, 2009
5
Solution Architecture Concept Service Activities Part I — Introduction and Workshop Preparation
•
− − − −
Evaluate Engagement and Prepare to Meet the Customer Sponsor Meet with the Customer Sponsor Agree on Work to be Done Prepare for the Workshop Delivery
Part II — Architecture Concept Workshop
•
− − −
Conduct Workshop Day 1 — Business and Functional View Finalise Preparations for Day 2 Conduct Workshop Day 2 — Technology and Implementation View
Part III — Documentation and Presentation of Findings
•
− − −
Prepare the Workshop Deliverables Deliver Workshop Report and Presentation Finalise the Project
November 26, 2009
6
Solution Architecture Concept Preparation and Delivery Times Activity Task
1
Evaluate Engagement and Prepare to Meet the Customer Sponsor 2 Meet with the Customer Sponsor 3 Agree on Work to be Done 4 Prepare for the Workshop Delivery 5 Conduct Workshop Day 1 – Business and Functional View 6 Finalise Preparations for Day 2 7 Conduct Workshop Day 2 – Technology and Implementation View 8 Prepare the Workshop Deliverables 9 Deliver Workshop Report and Presentation 10 Finalise the Project Total Estimated Time November 26, 2009
Estimated Preparation and Delivery Time (1) 2 hours 1 hour 2+ hours 20+ hours (2) 24 hours (8 hours x 3 days) 4 hours 24 hours (8 hours x 3 days) 20 hours 2 hours 2 hours 101+ hours
1.
2.
Estimated times are for the actual work and do not include the elapsed time between activities The time to prepare for the workshop delivery is an estimate for an experienced solution architect 7
Solution Architecture Concept Workshop Process • Off-site
to avoid interruptions
• Team
− Solution architect who acts as facilitator − One or more subject matter experts − Support consultant who documents the results
November 26, 2009
8
Intended Audience •
Solution Architecture Concept targeted at : − Are developing solutions that are part of business innovations (such as electronic commerce, data warehousing, and large-scale workflow) that affect day-to-day working operations − Need broad buy-in from multiple stakeholders − Have experienced rapid change in business complexity, business models, or technology − Are willing to invest some up-front effort to ensure they build the right solution − Need to be confident that the target user groups will accept and use the solution − Need to ensure that their business and functional considerations explicitly drive solutions − Need to track principles and requirements throughout the design and development process November 26, 2009
9
Intended Audience • Solution
Architecture Concept is important for solutions where the customer understands the overall business scope and direction into which the solution fits
• Solution
Architecture Concept might not be needed for projects where requirements and implementations are well understood
November 26, 2009
10
Intended Customer Audience • Customer
sponsor helps to identify workshop participants and stakeholders that can be interviewed before the workshop • Customer sponsor and key stakeholders determine who will attend, what to discuss, and what information to provide to attendees • Only some of the participants attend both days of the workshop • Attendees on the first day are primarily concerned with business and functional aspects of the solution • Attendees on the second day are primarily concerned with technical and implementation aspects of the solution November 26, 2009
11
Delivery Skills • Solution
Architect and/or Technology Consultant with
skills: − IT Strategy and Architecture − General information system architecture − Domain-specific business and technical architecture(s), such as Internet, intranet, extranet, data warehouse, electronic commerce, and security − Modeling tools (UML) • Delivery
training (Delivering the Solution Architecture Concept Service)
• Skill
in workshop facilitation, working in teams, report writing and presentation delivery
November 26, 2009
12
Customer Roles and Responsibilities • Customer
Sponsor
• Sponsor’s
Agent
• Key
Stakeholders
• Participants
November 26, 2009
13
Customer Roles and Responsibilities - Customer Sponsor •
Customer Sponsor − Ideally a high-level executive, such as director group manager, on either the business or the information technology (IT) side − Have overall responsibility for achieving a business result in the area the solution covers
•
Responsible for: − Initiating the workshop and approving plans − Interfacing with the account manager to identify needs and communicate expectations − Meeting with the solution architect before the workshop to approve direction and plans − Approving the Letter of Engagement (LOE) − Identifying an agent to work − Meeting with the solution architect after the workshop to provide feedback November 26, 2009
14
Customer Roles and Responsibilities - Sponsor’s Agent • Sponsor’s
Agent
• Responsible
for:
− Representing the customer sponsor, ensuring customer needs are addressed, and handling workshop logistics − Providing input on the problem − Managing funding and support issues − Identifying key stakeholders and participants − Arranging for workshop location and supplies − Communicating with the customer team − Addressing issues that affect the success of the workshop
November 26, 2009
15
Customer Roles and Responsibilities - Key Stakeholders • Key
Stakeholders
− People in the customer organisation who must buy into the workshop’s goals and results − Can help ensure the success of a workshop − Can undermine any agreements or initiatives resulting from the workshop if they do not buy into the workshop • Responsible
for:
− Providing input on the problem − Work to identify the business drivers, principles, models, and standards − Explaining customer needs and issues − Inform of potential problems − Responding to business and IT questions November 26, 2009
16
Customer Roles and Responsibilities - Participants • Participants
− Attend the workshop and providing input on areas of the problem that affect them
November 26, 2009
17
Job Titles and Solution Architecture Concept Workshop Roles • Engagement • Solution
Manager
Architect
• Facilitator • Subject
Matter Expert (SME)
• Account • Support
November 26, 2009
Manager
Consultant
18
Engagement Manager • Shares
the responsibility for customer satisfaction with the solution architect
• Sometimes
the engagement manager also fills the role of facilitator
• Responsible
for:
− Arranging and ensuring the successful and timely delivery of the Architecture Concept Service − Ensuring the right customer parties are engaged − Managing overall logistics for the service − Tracking the budget
November 26, 2009
19
Solution Architect •
Shares responsibility for customer satisfaction with the engagement manager
•
Fills the facilitator role additionally
•
Responsible for: − − − −
Delivering the Architecture Concept Service Defining what to deliver Designing the workshop Performing the service • • • • • •
Interviewing Interacting with the customers during the workshop Analysing and synthesising the report Creating the presentation Leading the report presentation meetingCleaning up loose ends
November 26, 2009
20
Facilitator •
Solution architect usually fills the facilitator role.
•
Engagement manager may fills the role of facilitator − In this case, the solution architect can sometimes fill the role of SME − Same person usually facilitates both days of the workshop
•
Responsible for − Ensuring the workshop runs smoothly − Following the agenda and timekeeping − Capturing the results on flip charts (or other media visible to workshop attendees) − Recognising and addressing any political, personal, or other issues that might jeopardise the ability to meet the stated workshop goals − Analysing, clarifying, summarising
November 26, 2009
21
Subject Matter Expert (SME) • Providing
business and/or technical expertise in one or more areas needed by the engagement
• Solution
architect can fill the SME role
− Not recommended because it puts a heavy load on the solution architect
November 26, 2009
22
Account Manager • Does
not need to attend the workshops • Needs to be kept informed of the workshop results • Account Executive is an essential party to the final report and presentation • Responsible for: − Managing the relationship with the customer (overall or services) and selling follow-on engagements − Identifying the opportunity − Providing access to key customer contacts − Positioning the engagement within an overall context of the customer’s business − Selling the value of the result November 26, 2009
23
Support Consultant • Responsible
for:
− Capturing all relevant information generated during the course of the workshop − Performing research − Helping to draft documents − Capturing and documenting complete interview and workshop results − Ensuring completeness of information − Summarising the issues and results
November 26, 2009
24
Job Titles and Solution Architecture Concept Workshop Roles Concept Workshop Engagement Roles Job Titles
Facilitator
Technology Consultant Solution Architect
Engagement Manager
Solution Architect
Subject Matter Support Expert Consultant
Account Executive
M
M
M
Y
~Y
N
~Y
~Y
√
Y
Y
N
Account Executive (Sales)
M
M
N
N
M
*
Program/Project Manager
~Y
Y
N
M
~Y
~N
Business Developer
~Y
Y
N
M
~Y
~Y
*
N
N
N
~Y
N
Facilitator • • • • • •
Y ~Y N ~N M *
= Yes = Generally yes, but verify that a specific individual with this title can fill this role = No = Generally no, but some individuals might have the skills to fill this role = Might have these skills (people with this job title often can fill this role) = Job title is the same as the role
November 26, 2009
25
Introduction & Preparation
Service Delivery Roadmap Meet
Evaluate
Sponsor
Engagement
2 days
Workshop
Work
Agenda Day 1
Interview Key Stakeholders
Run Workshop Day 1
Finalize Prep for Day 2
Functional Functional Business View Principles, Business View Principles, Models, View Models, View
1__________ 1__________ 2__________ 2__________ 3__________ 3__________ 4__________ 4__________
Deliver Report
& Presentation
November 26, 2009
Implementation Implementation Technical Technical View View Principles, Principles, Models, View Models, View Standards Standards
Standards Standards
1__________ 1__________ 2__________ 2__________ 3__________ 3__________ 4__________ 4__________
Draft Report
•ITSA •Business view •Functional view
Run Workshop Day 2
Implementation Technical Functional Business Drivers and Principles:
Prepare Workshop Deliverables Presentation
Prepare for Workshop Delivery
Agree on
Presentation
Next Steps
Finalise Project
Revise Report, Deliver to Sponsor 26
Part I: Introduction and Workshop Preparation •
Activity 1: Evaluate Engagement and Prepare to Meet the Customer Sponsor − Step 1: Review and understand the opportunity − Step 2: Identify the customer sponsor − Step 3: Prepare for the initial customer sponsor meeting
•
Activity 2: Meet with the Customer Sponsor − Step 1: Introduce Services and the Architecture Concept Service − Step 2: Understand the scope of the business opportunity − Step 3: Determine if the customer sponsor is ready to begin planning the workshop. (If yes, go to Activity 3; if no, continue with step 4) − Step 4: Review the initial customer sponsor meeting − Step 5: Write and deliver the Letter of Understanding (LOU)
•
Activity 3: Agree on Work to be Done − Step 1: Work with the customer sponsor to develop plan for the workshop − Step 2: Write and deliver the Consulting Services Agreement (CSA) − Step 3: Get CSA contract signed
•
Activity 4: Prepare for Workshop Delivery − − − − − − −
Step 1: Interview stakeholders identified by the customer sponsor Step 2: Finalise schedule Step 3: Write and deliver briefing letter for workshop attendees Step 4: Assemble and prepare team for Architecture Concept workshop Step 5: Prepare for the workshop Step 6: Get the team together on site Step 7: Meet with the customer sponsor immediately before the workshop
November 26, 2009
27
Activity 1: Evaluate Engagement and Prepare to Meet Customer Sponsor • Objectives
− To determine the source and scope of the business opportunity − To identify the customer sponsor and prepare for initial meeting • Prerequisites
− Identify the opportunity and the customer is serious about wanting to deliver the Solution Architecture Concept • Qualified
the customer
• Completion
Criteria
− The team has a general understanding of the business opportunity November 26, 2009
28
Activity 2: Meet with the Customer Sponsor •
Objectives − To introduce the Services delivery team to the customer sponsor − To check the chemistry of the interaction between the team and customer representatives − To discuss customer needs, such as their overall goal, current status, questions, and decisions they need to make − To gather information from the customer sponsor on the business and technical context of the work and their technology adoption profile − To understand the unique requirements of the engagement and the delivery team
•
Prerequisites − The team has met with the Account Executive to understand commitments to the customer and any background information. − The team has a plan for positioning the workshop − The team has a value proposition for Solution Architecture and the Architecture Concept
•
Completion Criteria − The customer understands the service deliverables as defined in the Service Description (SD) − The engagement manager and solution architect have a clear understanding of the customer’s environment and expectations − Optional — The engagement manager has written and delivered a Letter of Understanding (LOU) to the customer
November 26, 2009
29
Activity 3: Agree on Work to be Done •
Objectives − To close on the definition of the service to be performed − To identify people to fill the customer roles: sponsor’s agent, key stakeholders, and other participants. − To establish a tentative schedule − To write, deliver, and get signoff on the Concept Consulting Services Agreement contract
•
Prerequisites − The engagement manager and solution architect have had an initial meeting with the customer sponsor and have a general understanding of the business opportunity
•
Completion Criteria − The customer has signed the Concept Consulting Services Agreement contract November 26, 2009
30
Activity 4: Prepare for the Workshop Delivery •
Objectives − − − −
•
To interview key stakeholders To finalise the schedule To assemble and prepare the team for the workshop To prepare for the workshop, including gathering/developing materials, planning work site, arranging for equipment, and reviewing final agenda
Prerequisites − The customer has signed the CSA
•
Completion Criteria − The solution architect has interviewed all key stakeholders. − All customer participants have received the workshop briefing letter, which describes what will be done, why, and the level of commitment expected − Key participants have committed to attend the workshop − The team is onsite and prepared to deliver the workshop − The solution architect or engagement manager has consulted the customer sponsor for any last-minute corrections to the workshop
November 26, 2009
31
Part II: Concept Workshop • Activity
5: Conduct Workshop Day 1 — Business and Functional View − Step 1: Conduct workshop day 1 − Step 2: Review day 1 − Step 3: Report status back to the customer sponsor (or the sponsor’s agent)
• Activity
6: Finalise Preparations for Day 2
− Step 1: Complete preparations for day 2 • Activity
7: Conduct Workshop Day 2 — Technology and Implementation View − Step 1: Conduct workshop day 2 − Step 2: Review day 2 − Step 3: Review the entire workshop with the customer sponsor
November 26, 2009
32
Activity 5: Conduct Workshop Day 1 — Business and Functional View • Objectives
− To conduct a well-run and productive concept workshop day 1 − To review day 1 • Prerequisites
− The customer understands the objectives of this activity − The team has completed the pre-workshop activities in Part I • Completion
Criteria
− The team has completed day 1 of the concept workshop
November 26, 2009
33
Activity 6: Finalise Preparations for Day 2 • Objectives
− To make adjustments based on day 1 and prepare for day 2 • Prerequisites
− The team has completed day 1 of the workshop − The team has captured and reviewed information from day 1 • Completion
Criteria
− The team has completed preparations for day 2 of the Architecture Concept workshop
November 26, 2009
34
Activity 7: Conduct Workshop Day 2 — Technology and Implementation View •
Objectives − To conduct a well-run and productive Architecture Concept workshop day 2 − To review the workshop, identify key points and next steps − To make preliminary plans for producing and delivering the summary report and presentation
•
Prerequisites − The customer understands the objectives of this activity − The team has completed the preparation activities for day 2 listed in Activity 6
•
Completion Criteria − The team has completed day 2 of the Architecture Concept workshop − The team has completed the summary of day 2 with the customer
November 26, 2009
35
Part III: Documentation and Presentation of Findings •
Activity 8: Prepare the workshop deliverables − Step 1: Prepare a draft workshop report that summarises the workshop − Step 2: Prepare the slide presentation − Step 3: Discuss the draft workshop report and slides with the account executive − Step 4: Revise the draft workshop report and slides − Step 5: Plan the logistics of the presentation meeting
•
Activity 9: Deliver the draft workshop report and presentation − Step 1: Deliver the draft workshop report and presentation to the customer sponsor
•
Activity 10: Finalise the project − Step 1: Revise the draft workshop report − Step 2: Mail or deliver the revised workshop report to the customer sponsor − Step 3: Close the project November 26, 2009
36
Activity 8: Prepare the Workshop Deliverables •
Objectives − To review the workshop and prepare the summary report and presentation for the customer − To identify the next steps and possible future work
•
Prerequisites − The team has completed the workshop and gathered information from the customer on final reactions and key points
•
Completion Criteria − The team has completed the draft report and slides, including a list of actions and next steps to make progress on the solution − The account executive has approved the draft report and slides November 26, 2009
37
Activity 9: Deliver Workshop Report and Presentation •
Objectives − To deliver the draft workshop report and presentation. − To get the sponsor to commit to implement the report’s recommendations or at least take the next step. The next step will often be to form a customer architect team for the solution. This team consists of a business leader, a program manager, and possibly an architect, with an architect to flesh out what needs to go into a Solution Architecture Blueprint
•
Prerequisites − The customer understands the objectives of this activity − The team has completed the draft workshop report and presentation − The account executive is available to address any opportunities during the presentation
•
Completion Criteria − The solution architect has delivered the draft workshop report and presentation
November 26, 2009
38
Activity 10: Finalise the Project •
Objectives − To make final changes, gather summary input, and close the project
•
Prerequisites − The customer understands the objectives of this activity − The solution architect has delivered the draft report and presentation to the customer sponsor − The account executive has identified any next steps and new opportunities
•
Completion Criteria − The engagement manager has delivered the final report to the customer and formally closed the project − The solution architect has prepared a project closure report that includes post-engagement analysis − Ideally, there is an agreement from the customer sponsor to begin a followon engagement November 26, 2009
39
Solution Architecture Concept Workshop Templates • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
ITSA Overview Customer Presentation V0.1.ppt Requirements Methodology Presentation V0.1.ppt Solution Architecture Concept Facilitator's Guide V0.1.doc Solution Architecture Concept Service Delivery Guide V0.1.doc A1 - Evaluate Engagement A10 - Finalise Project - No Tools A2 - Meet Sponsor A3 - Agree on Work A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery A5 - Run Workshop Day 1 A6 - Finalise Preparation for Day 2 A7 - Run Workshop Day 2 - No Tools A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables A9 - Deliver Report and Presentation - No Tools A1 - Evaluate Engagement\ITSA Overview Customer Presentation V0.1.ppt A1 - Evaluate Engagement\LOU Engagement Plan Example V0.1.doc A1 - Evaluate Engagement\LOU Engagement Plan V0.1.doc A1 - Evaluate Engagement\Opportunity Assessment Worksheet V0.1.doc A1 - Evaluate Engagement\Previous Experience Worksheet V0.1.doc A1 - Evaluate Engagement\Vendor Matrix Example V0.1.ppt A2 - Meet Sponsor\Account Profile and Data Collection Worksheet V0.1.doc A2 - Meet Sponsor\Planning for Successful Contracts V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Business View Presentation V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\C Presentation V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Capture Template for Drivers, Principles, and Related Information V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Concept Agendas V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Functional View Presentation November V0.1.ppt 26, 2009
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Implementation View Presentation V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Participant Briefing Letter V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Pre-Workshop Customer Sponsor Meeting Planner V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Presentation V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Technical View Presentation V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Workshop Agenda Example V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Workshop Agenda V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Workshop Content and Role Planner V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Workshop Customer Participant Planner V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Workshop Introduction Presentation V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Workshop Logistics Planner V0.1.doc A5 - Run Workshop Day 1\Key Questions for Customers.doc A5 - Run Workshop Day 1\Litmus Test for Principles Checklist.doc A5 - Run Workshop Day 1\Vision Exercise Planner.doc A6 - Finalise Preparation for Day 2\Interim Summary Presentation Example.ppt A6 - Finalise Preparation for Day 2\Interim Summary Presentation Planner.doc A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables\Presentation Preparation Checklist.doc A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables\Report on Architecture Workshop Example.doc A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables\Report on Architecture Workshop.doc A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables\Report Outline.doc A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables\Sponsor Presentation Example.ppt A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables\Sponsor Presentation.ppt
40
More Information Alan McSweeney [email protected]
November 26, 2009
41
Agenda Objectives • Benefits • Limitations and restrictions • Service activities • Preparation and delivery times • Workshop process • Intended customer audience • Delivery skills • Roles and responsibilities • Job titles and solution architecture concept roles • Location of delivery materials •
November 26, 2009
2
Objectives of Solution Architecture Concept • Provide
the context for understanding the interrelationships of the business and technical components of a solution that is designed to support a company’s business
• Agree
on the fundamental purpose, value, and use of the proposed information system/initiative
• Define
the scope of the solution architecture; the essential components
• Develop
an architectural overview of the solution that will serve as a basis for timely decision making
November 26, 2009
3
Benefits of Solution Architecture Concept •
Develop a practical decision framework for a solution that addresses business, functional, technical, and implementation perspectives. The framework provides linkage information to trace decisions to driving principles.
•
Develop a solution that has a potentially longer life span because the solution is: − More likely to meet the true needs of the customer − Designed to evolve in the directions most likely to occur
•
Optimise a project in scope and effectiveness
•
Ensure the most important aspects of the project are developed and delivered early
•
Give a better understanding of the customer’s business environment and needs November 26, 2009
4
Limitations and Restrictions • Solution
Architecture Concept does not include:
− An in-depth analysis of the customer’s business − A complete blueprint of the solution architecture − Design or implementation of the solution architecture
November 26, 2009
5
Solution Architecture Concept Service Activities Part I — Introduction and Workshop Preparation
•
− − − −
Evaluate Engagement and Prepare to Meet the Customer Sponsor Meet with the Customer Sponsor Agree on Work to be Done Prepare for the Workshop Delivery
Part II — Architecture Concept Workshop
•
− − −
Conduct Workshop Day 1 — Business and Functional View Finalise Preparations for Day 2 Conduct Workshop Day 2 — Technology and Implementation View
Part III — Documentation and Presentation of Findings
•
− − −
Prepare the Workshop Deliverables Deliver Workshop Report and Presentation Finalise the Project
November 26, 2009
6
Solution Architecture Concept Preparation and Delivery Times Activity Task
1
Evaluate Engagement and Prepare to Meet the Customer Sponsor 2 Meet with the Customer Sponsor 3 Agree on Work to be Done 4 Prepare for the Workshop Delivery 5 Conduct Workshop Day 1 – Business and Functional View 6 Finalise Preparations for Day 2 7 Conduct Workshop Day 2 – Technology and Implementation View 8 Prepare the Workshop Deliverables 9 Deliver Workshop Report and Presentation 10 Finalise the Project Total Estimated Time November 26, 2009
Estimated Preparation and Delivery Time (1) 2 hours 1 hour 2+ hours 20+ hours (2) 24 hours (8 hours x 3 days) 4 hours 24 hours (8 hours x 3 days) 20 hours 2 hours 2 hours 101+ hours
1.
2.
Estimated times are for the actual work and do not include the elapsed time between activities The time to prepare for the workshop delivery is an estimate for an experienced solution architect 7
Solution Architecture Concept Workshop Process • Off-site
to avoid interruptions
• Team
− Solution architect who acts as facilitator − One or more subject matter experts − Support consultant who documents the results
November 26, 2009
8
Intended Audience •
Solution Architecture Concept targeted at : − Are developing solutions that are part of business innovations (such as electronic commerce, data warehousing, and large-scale workflow) that affect day-to-day working operations − Need broad buy-in from multiple stakeholders − Have experienced rapid change in business complexity, business models, or technology − Are willing to invest some up-front effort to ensure they build the right solution − Need to be confident that the target user groups will accept and use the solution − Need to ensure that their business and functional considerations explicitly drive solutions − Need to track principles and requirements throughout the design and development process November 26, 2009
9
Intended Audience • Solution
Architecture Concept is important for solutions where the customer understands the overall business scope and direction into which the solution fits
• Solution
Architecture Concept might not be needed for projects where requirements and implementations are well understood
November 26, 2009
10
Intended Customer Audience • Customer
sponsor helps to identify workshop participants and stakeholders that can be interviewed before the workshop • Customer sponsor and key stakeholders determine who will attend, what to discuss, and what information to provide to attendees • Only some of the participants attend both days of the workshop • Attendees on the first day are primarily concerned with business and functional aspects of the solution • Attendees on the second day are primarily concerned with technical and implementation aspects of the solution November 26, 2009
11
Delivery Skills • Solution
Architect and/or Technology Consultant with
skills: − IT Strategy and Architecture − General information system architecture − Domain-specific business and technical architecture(s), such as Internet, intranet, extranet, data warehouse, electronic commerce, and security − Modeling tools (UML) • Delivery
training (Delivering the Solution Architecture Concept Service)
• Skill
in workshop facilitation, working in teams, report writing and presentation delivery
November 26, 2009
12
Customer Roles and Responsibilities • Customer
Sponsor
• Sponsor’s
Agent
• Key
Stakeholders
• Participants
November 26, 2009
13
Customer Roles and Responsibilities - Customer Sponsor •
Customer Sponsor − Ideally a high-level executive, such as director group manager, on either the business or the information technology (IT) side − Have overall responsibility for achieving a business result in the area the solution covers
•
Responsible for: − Initiating the workshop and approving plans − Interfacing with the account manager to identify needs and communicate expectations − Meeting with the solution architect before the workshop to approve direction and plans − Approving the Letter of Engagement (LOE) − Identifying an agent to work − Meeting with the solution architect after the workshop to provide feedback November 26, 2009
14
Customer Roles and Responsibilities - Sponsor’s Agent • Sponsor’s
Agent
• Responsible
for:
− Representing the customer sponsor, ensuring customer needs are addressed, and handling workshop logistics − Providing input on the problem − Managing funding and support issues − Identifying key stakeholders and participants − Arranging for workshop location and supplies − Communicating with the customer team − Addressing issues that affect the success of the workshop
November 26, 2009
15
Customer Roles and Responsibilities - Key Stakeholders • Key
Stakeholders
− People in the customer organisation who must buy into the workshop’s goals and results − Can help ensure the success of a workshop − Can undermine any agreements or initiatives resulting from the workshop if they do not buy into the workshop • Responsible
for:
− Providing input on the problem − Work to identify the business drivers, principles, models, and standards − Explaining customer needs and issues − Inform of potential problems − Responding to business and IT questions November 26, 2009
16
Customer Roles and Responsibilities - Participants • Participants
− Attend the workshop and providing input on areas of the problem that affect them
November 26, 2009
17
Job Titles and Solution Architecture Concept Workshop Roles • Engagement • Solution
Manager
Architect
• Facilitator • Subject
Matter Expert (SME)
• Account • Support
November 26, 2009
Manager
Consultant
18
Engagement Manager • Shares
the responsibility for customer satisfaction with the solution architect
• Sometimes
the engagement manager also fills the role of facilitator
• Responsible
for:
− Arranging and ensuring the successful and timely delivery of the Architecture Concept Service − Ensuring the right customer parties are engaged − Managing overall logistics for the service − Tracking the budget
November 26, 2009
19
Solution Architect •
Shares responsibility for customer satisfaction with the engagement manager
•
Fills the facilitator role additionally
•
Responsible for: − − − −
Delivering the Architecture Concept Service Defining what to deliver Designing the workshop Performing the service • • • • • •
Interviewing Interacting with the customers during the workshop Analysing and synthesising the report Creating the presentation Leading the report presentation meetingCleaning up loose ends
November 26, 2009
20
Facilitator •
Solution architect usually fills the facilitator role.
•
Engagement manager may fills the role of facilitator − In this case, the solution architect can sometimes fill the role of SME − Same person usually facilitates both days of the workshop
•
Responsible for − Ensuring the workshop runs smoothly − Following the agenda and timekeeping − Capturing the results on flip charts (or other media visible to workshop attendees) − Recognising and addressing any political, personal, or other issues that might jeopardise the ability to meet the stated workshop goals − Analysing, clarifying, summarising
November 26, 2009
21
Subject Matter Expert (SME) • Providing
business and/or technical expertise in one or more areas needed by the engagement
• Solution
architect can fill the SME role
− Not recommended because it puts a heavy load on the solution architect
November 26, 2009
22
Account Manager • Does
not need to attend the workshops • Needs to be kept informed of the workshop results • Account Executive is an essential party to the final report and presentation • Responsible for: − Managing the relationship with the customer (overall or services) and selling follow-on engagements − Identifying the opportunity − Providing access to key customer contacts − Positioning the engagement within an overall context of the customer’s business − Selling the value of the result November 26, 2009
23
Support Consultant • Responsible
for:
− Capturing all relevant information generated during the course of the workshop − Performing research − Helping to draft documents − Capturing and documenting complete interview and workshop results − Ensuring completeness of information − Summarising the issues and results
November 26, 2009
24
Job Titles and Solution Architecture Concept Workshop Roles Concept Workshop Engagement Roles Job Titles
Facilitator
Technology Consultant Solution Architect
Engagement Manager
Solution Architect
Subject Matter Support Expert Consultant
Account Executive
M
M
M
Y
~Y
N
~Y
~Y
√
Y
Y
N
Account Executive (Sales)
M
M
N
N
M
*
Program/Project Manager
~Y
Y
N
M
~Y
~N
Business Developer
~Y
Y
N
M
~Y
~Y
*
N
N
N
~Y
N
Facilitator • • • • • •
Y ~Y N ~N M *
= Yes = Generally yes, but verify that a specific individual with this title can fill this role = No = Generally no, but some individuals might have the skills to fill this role = Might have these skills (people with this job title often can fill this role) = Job title is the same as the role
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Introduction & Preparation
Service Delivery Roadmap Meet
Evaluate
Sponsor
Engagement
2 days
Workshop
Work
Agenda Day 1
Interview Key Stakeholders
Run Workshop Day 1
Finalize Prep for Day 2
Functional Functional Business View Principles, Business View Principles, Models, View Models, View
1__________ 1__________ 2__________ 2__________ 3__________ 3__________ 4__________ 4__________
Deliver Report
& Presentation
November 26, 2009
Implementation Implementation Technical Technical View View Principles, Principles, Models, View Models, View Standards Standards
Standards Standards
1__________ 1__________ 2__________ 2__________ 3__________ 3__________ 4__________ 4__________
Draft Report
•ITSA •Business view •Functional view
Run Workshop Day 2
Implementation Technical Functional Business Drivers and Principles:
Prepare Workshop Deliverables Presentation
Prepare for Workshop Delivery
Agree on
Presentation
Next Steps
Finalise Project
Revise Report, Deliver to Sponsor 26
Part I: Introduction and Workshop Preparation •
Activity 1: Evaluate Engagement and Prepare to Meet the Customer Sponsor − Step 1: Review and understand the opportunity − Step 2: Identify the customer sponsor − Step 3: Prepare for the initial customer sponsor meeting
•
Activity 2: Meet with the Customer Sponsor − Step 1: Introduce Services and the Architecture Concept Service − Step 2: Understand the scope of the business opportunity − Step 3: Determine if the customer sponsor is ready to begin planning the workshop. (If yes, go to Activity 3; if no, continue with step 4) − Step 4: Review the initial customer sponsor meeting − Step 5: Write and deliver the Letter of Understanding (LOU)
•
Activity 3: Agree on Work to be Done − Step 1: Work with the customer sponsor to develop plan for the workshop − Step 2: Write and deliver the Consulting Services Agreement (CSA) − Step 3: Get CSA contract signed
•
Activity 4: Prepare for Workshop Delivery − − − − − − −
Step 1: Interview stakeholders identified by the customer sponsor Step 2: Finalise schedule Step 3: Write and deliver briefing letter for workshop attendees Step 4: Assemble and prepare team for Architecture Concept workshop Step 5: Prepare for the workshop Step 6: Get the team together on site Step 7: Meet with the customer sponsor immediately before the workshop
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Activity 1: Evaluate Engagement and Prepare to Meet Customer Sponsor • Objectives
− To determine the source and scope of the business opportunity − To identify the customer sponsor and prepare for initial meeting • Prerequisites
− Identify the opportunity and the customer is serious about wanting to deliver the Solution Architecture Concept • Qualified
the customer
• Completion
Criteria
− The team has a general understanding of the business opportunity November 26, 2009
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Activity 2: Meet with the Customer Sponsor •
Objectives − To introduce the Services delivery team to the customer sponsor − To check the chemistry of the interaction between the team and customer representatives − To discuss customer needs, such as their overall goal, current status, questions, and decisions they need to make − To gather information from the customer sponsor on the business and technical context of the work and their technology adoption profile − To understand the unique requirements of the engagement and the delivery team
•
Prerequisites − The team has met with the Account Executive to understand commitments to the customer and any background information. − The team has a plan for positioning the workshop − The team has a value proposition for Solution Architecture and the Architecture Concept
•
Completion Criteria − The customer understands the service deliverables as defined in the Service Description (SD) − The engagement manager and solution architect have a clear understanding of the customer’s environment and expectations − Optional — The engagement manager has written and delivered a Letter of Understanding (LOU) to the customer
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Activity 3: Agree on Work to be Done •
Objectives − To close on the definition of the service to be performed − To identify people to fill the customer roles: sponsor’s agent, key stakeholders, and other participants. − To establish a tentative schedule − To write, deliver, and get signoff on the Concept Consulting Services Agreement contract
•
Prerequisites − The engagement manager and solution architect have had an initial meeting with the customer sponsor and have a general understanding of the business opportunity
•
Completion Criteria − The customer has signed the Concept Consulting Services Agreement contract November 26, 2009
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Activity 4: Prepare for the Workshop Delivery •
Objectives − − − −
•
To interview key stakeholders To finalise the schedule To assemble and prepare the team for the workshop To prepare for the workshop, including gathering/developing materials, planning work site, arranging for equipment, and reviewing final agenda
Prerequisites − The customer has signed the CSA
•
Completion Criteria − The solution architect has interviewed all key stakeholders. − All customer participants have received the workshop briefing letter, which describes what will be done, why, and the level of commitment expected − Key participants have committed to attend the workshop − The team is onsite and prepared to deliver the workshop − The solution architect or engagement manager has consulted the customer sponsor for any last-minute corrections to the workshop
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Part II: Concept Workshop • Activity
5: Conduct Workshop Day 1 — Business and Functional View − Step 1: Conduct workshop day 1 − Step 2: Review day 1 − Step 3: Report status back to the customer sponsor (or the sponsor’s agent)
• Activity
6: Finalise Preparations for Day 2
− Step 1: Complete preparations for day 2 • Activity
7: Conduct Workshop Day 2 — Technology and Implementation View − Step 1: Conduct workshop day 2 − Step 2: Review day 2 − Step 3: Review the entire workshop with the customer sponsor
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Activity 5: Conduct Workshop Day 1 — Business and Functional View • Objectives
− To conduct a well-run and productive concept workshop day 1 − To review day 1 • Prerequisites
− The customer understands the objectives of this activity − The team has completed the pre-workshop activities in Part I • Completion
Criteria
− The team has completed day 1 of the concept workshop
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Activity 6: Finalise Preparations for Day 2 • Objectives
− To make adjustments based on day 1 and prepare for day 2 • Prerequisites
− The team has completed day 1 of the workshop − The team has captured and reviewed information from day 1 • Completion
Criteria
− The team has completed preparations for day 2 of the Architecture Concept workshop
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Activity 7: Conduct Workshop Day 2 — Technology and Implementation View •
Objectives − To conduct a well-run and productive Architecture Concept workshop day 2 − To review the workshop, identify key points and next steps − To make preliminary plans for producing and delivering the summary report and presentation
•
Prerequisites − The customer understands the objectives of this activity − The team has completed the preparation activities for day 2 listed in Activity 6
•
Completion Criteria − The team has completed day 2 of the Architecture Concept workshop − The team has completed the summary of day 2 with the customer
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Part III: Documentation and Presentation of Findings •
Activity 8: Prepare the workshop deliverables − Step 1: Prepare a draft workshop report that summarises the workshop − Step 2: Prepare the slide presentation − Step 3: Discuss the draft workshop report and slides with the account executive − Step 4: Revise the draft workshop report and slides − Step 5: Plan the logistics of the presentation meeting
•
Activity 9: Deliver the draft workshop report and presentation − Step 1: Deliver the draft workshop report and presentation to the customer sponsor
•
Activity 10: Finalise the project − Step 1: Revise the draft workshop report − Step 2: Mail or deliver the revised workshop report to the customer sponsor − Step 3: Close the project November 26, 2009
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Activity 8: Prepare the Workshop Deliverables •
Objectives − To review the workshop and prepare the summary report and presentation for the customer − To identify the next steps and possible future work
•
Prerequisites − The team has completed the workshop and gathered information from the customer on final reactions and key points
•
Completion Criteria − The team has completed the draft report and slides, including a list of actions and next steps to make progress on the solution − The account executive has approved the draft report and slides November 26, 2009
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Activity 9: Deliver Workshop Report and Presentation •
Objectives − To deliver the draft workshop report and presentation. − To get the sponsor to commit to implement the report’s recommendations or at least take the next step. The next step will often be to form a customer architect team for the solution. This team consists of a business leader, a program manager, and possibly an architect, with an architect to flesh out what needs to go into a Solution Architecture Blueprint
•
Prerequisites − The customer understands the objectives of this activity − The team has completed the draft workshop report and presentation − The account executive is available to address any opportunities during the presentation
•
Completion Criteria − The solution architect has delivered the draft workshop report and presentation
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Activity 10: Finalise the Project •
Objectives − To make final changes, gather summary input, and close the project
•
Prerequisites − The customer understands the objectives of this activity − The solution architect has delivered the draft report and presentation to the customer sponsor − The account executive has identified any next steps and new opportunities
•
Completion Criteria − The engagement manager has delivered the final report to the customer and formally closed the project − The solution architect has prepared a project closure report that includes post-engagement analysis − Ideally, there is an agreement from the customer sponsor to begin a followon engagement November 26, 2009
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Solution Architecture Concept Workshop Templates • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
ITSA Overview Customer Presentation V0.1.ppt Requirements Methodology Presentation V0.1.ppt Solution Architecture Concept Facilitator's Guide V0.1.doc Solution Architecture Concept Service Delivery Guide V0.1.doc A1 - Evaluate Engagement A10 - Finalise Project - No Tools A2 - Meet Sponsor A3 - Agree on Work A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery A5 - Run Workshop Day 1 A6 - Finalise Preparation for Day 2 A7 - Run Workshop Day 2 - No Tools A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables A9 - Deliver Report and Presentation - No Tools A1 - Evaluate Engagement\ITSA Overview Customer Presentation V0.1.ppt A1 - Evaluate Engagement\LOU Engagement Plan Example V0.1.doc A1 - Evaluate Engagement\LOU Engagement Plan V0.1.doc A1 - Evaluate Engagement\Opportunity Assessment Worksheet V0.1.doc A1 - Evaluate Engagement\Previous Experience Worksheet V0.1.doc A1 - Evaluate Engagement\Vendor Matrix Example V0.1.ppt A2 - Meet Sponsor\Account Profile and Data Collection Worksheet V0.1.doc A2 - Meet Sponsor\Planning for Successful Contracts V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Business View Presentation V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\C Presentation V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Capture Template for Drivers, Principles, and Related Information V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Concept Agendas V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Functional View Presentation November V0.1.ppt 26, 2009
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Implementation View Presentation V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Participant Briefing Letter V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Pre-Workshop Customer Sponsor Meeting Planner V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Presentation V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Technical View Presentation V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Workshop Agenda Example V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Workshop Agenda V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Workshop Content and Role Planner V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Workshop Customer Participant Planner V0.1.doc A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Workshop Introduction Presentation V0.1.ppt A4 - Prepare for Workshop Delivery\Workshop Logistics Planner V0.1.doc A5 - Run Workshop Day 1\Key Questions for Customers.doc A5 - Run Workshop Day 1\Litmus Test for Principles Checklist.doc A5 - Run Workshop Day 1\Vision Exercise Planner.doc A6 - Finalise Preparation for Day 2\Interim Summary Presentation Example.ppt A6 - Finalise Preparation for Day 2\Interim Summary Presentation Planner.doc A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables\Presentation Preparation Checklist.doc A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables\Report on Architecture Workshop Example.doc A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables\Report on Architecture Workshop.doc A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables\Report Outline.doc A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables\Sponsor Presentation Example.ppt A8 - Prepare Workshop Deliverables\Sponsor Presentation.ppt
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More Information Alan McSweeney [email protected]
November 26, 2009
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