INMR85-Business Architecture

Module Provider: Business Informatics, Systems and Accounting
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2018/9

Email: v.a.michell@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The digital business architecture module develops an architecture model from strategy through service and process design to the linkage with appropriate digital information system applications and the related hardware infrastructure.  Multiple case studies enable the development of skills to understand how such a model can be developed for any business and how digital solutions can be planned, designed and evaluated at a strategic organisational level.

Aims:

Business architecture teaches students the basic knowledge and techniques for the design and modelling of a digital enterprise architecture. The module addresses the design, planning, implementation and governance of enterprise architecture to support business strategy and exploit digital solutions. The vehicle for this is an EA framework. Typically the IAF framework is used by but other EA frameworks may be substituted to keep up with business progress The module will teach the structure and principles of the EA framework as well as general EA principles applicable to the domain and digital technology solutions.,



This will enable students to model a business across four domain areas: business, application, data and technology and the digital world. The module involves frequent workshops and practical case assessments based on real business examples where students tackle problems and use and develop their knowledge of enterprise architecture techniques and methods. During the workshops students are encouraged to develop their digital architecture models using architectural modelling standards. Students are required to present their work in architectural teams to develop and demonstrate both the knowledge of, and ability to apply enterprise architecture techniques. Being able to respond well to time and complexity pressure is a fundamental ability taught by the module.

Assessable learning outcomes:

On the completion of the course, the students will be able to:

• Understand the content, structure and the formation of business architecture;

• Understand the role of business strategy in business architecture;

• Understand and develop an architecture model based on enterprise architecture principles

• Understand the key positioning of technology architecture in the whole spectrum of business activities from strategy to delivery and operation;

• Define and build business transformation roadmaps and how to relate to the Information System and technical Infrastructure areas;



 

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

The course covers the following areas:

• Business architecture: digital technology and digital business capabilities, governance structure, business processes and business information.

• Integrated views of a business: Strategy, Digital Technology Capabilities, Processes, Organisational and Knowledge.

• The IAF Architecture Framework: design, planning, implementation and governance of a digital information architecture.

• Context of Architecture: Integrated Architecture Framework; Contextual input, Case studies.

• Content of the Digital Architecture: Engagement Roadmap; Business and information conceptual models; Business and information logical models; Business and information physical models; Security & Governance

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

A range of teaching and learning methods will be employed, but will focus largely on lectures, in-class practical case studies, group work and independent supported learning.

Summative assessment- Examinations:
None

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

The assessed course work involves a separate 5000 word individual coursework report based on given essay questions and or a case study. (100%) due on week 3 in spring term

Formative assessment methods:

Students will be required to produce a number of presentations and work as a member of a team. Their performance will be assessed relative to up to six or more factors that mark their architecture and consulting abilities, including teamwork and ability to assimilate and apply the architecture knowledge. The marks will be given, but will not be formally assessed.

Penalties for late submission:

Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx 

Assessment requirements for a pass:

Students will be required to obtain a mark of 50% overall based on the coursework. 

Pass criteria - To pass this module, the students must demonstrate their overall knowledge, understanding and perception of the concepts and principles of the business architecture and technology architecture. They should also demonstrate the understanding the importance of aligning the business strategies with the technology architecture. 

Distinction criteria - To achieve distinction the students must exhibit their original thoughts and critical-analysis ability in designing of an architectural solutions and problem-solving ability in the solutions provided.

Students will be required to obtain a mark of 50% overall based on the coursework and examination. 

Reassessment arrangements:
Reassessment will be by re-submission of coursework.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: Transportation cost from and to Greenlands campus: Students are encouraged to jointly book taxis and this usually works out around £23 (estimated) for the return journey. However students receive free board and lodging of which breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided.

Last updated: 20 April 2018