With the development of Enterprise Architecture (EA) as a
discipline, measuring and understanding its value for business and IT has
become relevant. In this paper a framework for categorizing the benefits of EA,
the Enterprise Architecture Value Framework (EAVF), is presented and based
on this framework, a measurability maturity scale is introduced.
In the EAVF the value aspects of EA are expressed using the four perspectives
of the Balanced Scorecard with regard to the development of these aspects over
time, defining sixteen key areas in which EA may provide value. In its current
form the framework can support architects and researchers in describing and
categorizing the benefits of EA.
As part of our ongoing research on the value of EA, two pilots using the
framework have been carried out at large financial institutions. These pilots
illustrate how to use the EAVF as a tool in measuring the benefits of EA.