Listen up architecture fans! I came across a great definition of architecture from Andrew Townley. I received this definition via email. I subscribe to receive emails from him. Enjoy!

The truth – and the problem – actually lies in the power of the thing the word “architecture” itself represents. The simplest version of the definition that is always guaranteed to be true is this one:

“The structure of something.”

Many definitions – including mine – add the words “complex” or “carefully designed” to that definition, but they’re not necessary.

Because everything has an architecture.

Everything.

The question is the degree to which it

1. exhibits complexity, and
2. has been designed—carefully or otherwise.

Organizations have an architecture, but it isn’t the wires, cables and computers inside it. It’s the collection of governance structures that defines what it is and which work together to deliver the value it creates for its customers. Once you understand this critical point, getting what you want becomes a whole lot easier—

Including security, compliance and true governance.