Navigating the complexities of enterprise architecture requires a robust and proven methodology. The TOGAF Architecture Development Method (ADM) stands as a cornerstone for professionals aiming to design, plan, implement, and govern enterprise information technology architecture. This guide offers a refreshed look at its core phases, providing essential knowledge and practical outcomes to help you master the ADM and drive successful architectural transformations in today’s dynamic environment.
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What Is the TOGAF ADM and Why Is It Still So Relevant in 2025?
The Architecture Development Method (ADM) is the heart of the TOGAFŸ framework, a globally accepted approach for designing and managing enterprise architecture. While the framework itself is well-established, organizations continue to apply its principles in new ways, especially with evolving digital transformation needs.
At PM Training School, weâve guided hundreds of professionals in mastering TOGAFÂźâand one thing is clear: understanding the ADM outputs, insights, and decision checkpoints is vital not just for passing the exam, but for building actionable architectures. Many candidates have benefited from a structured approach, similar to the one detailed in “How I Passed TOGAF 10 Part 1 & 2 in 5 Weeks: Study Plan & Resources“.
In this updated guide, we explore the core phases of TOGAF ADM (from A to H), breaking down each phase with fresh insights for 2025 learners and professionals.
đ Phase A: Laying the Foundation with Architecture Vision
Outcome:
The outcome of Phase A is stakeholder buy-in to proceed. This means the enterprise grants permission to move forward with defining a target architecture.
Key Insights:
- What is the scope of the business or technology problem?
- Who are the stakeholders, and what concerns do they bring to the table?
- What does a summary-level solution look like?
- How does this vision align with stakeholder priorities and enterprise goals?
This phase creates alignment and avoids derailment in later stages.
𧩠Phases B, C, D: Creating Domain Architectures (Business, Data, Application, Technology)
Outcome:
These phases result in stakeholder-approved architectures across key enterprise domains. They also highlight gaps between current capabilities and future needs.
Key Insights:
- Where does the current enterprise fall short?
- What transformations are needed to meet evolving stakeholder preferences?
- What work packages are required to bridge those gaps?
This is where youâll apply reference models, architecture diagrams, and gap analysisâall while validating with stakeholders.
𧱠Phase E: From Gaps to Solutions
Outcome:
A complete list of work packages and initiatives required to address the architecture gaps, along with dependencies and estimated value.
Key Insights:
- Which building blocks are reusable, and which must be developed?
- How do value, risk, and stakeholder alignment inform the sequencing of work packages?
Phase E translates strategy into an actionable solution roadmap.
đ Phase F: Planning the Implementation and Migration
Outcome:
AÂ strategic rollout planâincluding approved projects, resources, timelines, and constraints.
Key Insights:
- What resources are needed?
- How does the plan align with stakeholder value-risk-effort considerations?
- How do you ensure consistency across legacy and future states?
This is your go-live blueprint.
đ TOGAF Study Plan
đ Phase G: Implementation Governance
Outcome:
Successful completion of projects aligned with architecture goals and quality standards.
Key Insights:
- What are the constraints, checks, and controls on implementation teams?
- How do you measure stakeholder satisfaction during implementation?
- How do you course-correct if things go off track?
Governance ensures the architecture becomes realityâwithout deviation.
â»ïž Phase H: Architecture Change Management
Outcome:
Authorization to initiate new cycles of change based on performance reviews, shifting priorities, or unforeseen disruptions.
Key Insights:
- What gaps remain after delivery?
- How has stakeholder preference evolved?
- Are new architectures needed to address emergent challenges?
In Phase H, the architecture adapts to changing business realitiesâproving that TOGAF is a living framework.
đ TOGAF Study Group (WhatsApp)
đŻ Why This Matters in Todayâs Architecture Practice
Understanding TOGAFâs ADM isnât just about exam success. Itâs about:
- Leading architecture initiatives with clarity
- Aligning enterprise objectives with stakeholder expectations
- Driving transformation through structured, repeatable methods
At PM Training School, our TOGAFÂź training prepares professionals not just to pass, but to apply ADM to real projectsâwith templates, coaching, and practical workshops.
đ Ready to Master TOGAFÂź with Confidence?
Whether youâre preparing for the TOGAFÂź 10 certification or need help applying ADM in your organization, our team is here to support you.
đ§ Email us at support@pmtrainingschool.com
đ± Call now: +64 21103635
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