In TOGAF, Solution Architecture describes a focused business operation and how IT supports it. Essentially, it outlines the IT solution using diagrams, models, processes, and logic, which can seem like an upfront analysis. With an Agile team executing well-formulated user stories and turning them into software iteratively, the formal Solution Architecture seem like a step back into the waterfall world.
🤔 Can Solution Architecture coexist with Agile methodologies, or does it hinder the Agile process?
It depends on how and why it's done. Skipping formal Solution Architecture is acceptable, but essential questions still need to be answered. The difference is that the answers might not be documented, and they cannot be viewed in a broader context. Data models reside only in databases, and business logic and processes are embedded in code and screen flow. There are no artifacts for the team to refer to. Decisions are rooted in assumptions, and over time, the initial goal can become diluted due to decisions made without clear recollection of their original purpose. This is especially true when team members change on a project.
🔍 Have you experienced a situation where lack of documentation led to challenges in your Agile projects? How did you overcome them?
The role of Solution Architecture is to provide clarity, capture concepts, and make them accessible. It can evolve with the product in an Agile way or be done upfront in the traditional waterfall fashion. It can also be done retrospectively as documentation of the existing situation. However, with increasing organizational complexity, involving more processes, solutions, and teams, solutions must be documented; otherwise, even Agile development may fail.
📈 How do you strike the right balance between maintaining Agile flexibility and ensuring sufficient documentation at your organization?