Abstract
This paper introduces a strategic layer as separate and distinct from an operational layer found in a traditional business architecture framework. The motivation for so doing is to better understand the unique processes of such a layer so that they can be better supported by the enterprise.
Several architecture frameworks from various domains are analyzed in order to gain insights and test the potential viability and applicability of a strategic layer in the context of a high-level enterprise system architecture. Each is reviewed and assessed in terms of its potential contribution and/or applicability to a strategic layer. For completeness, architectures of human behavior and performance are also reviewed since they may impact the execution of strategic layer processes. It is shown that while some of the frameworks have applicability and may indirectly support the processes contained within a strategic layer, none of the architectural frameworks appear to explicitly support a strategic layer. However, analysis of the frameworks may inform how processes contained within a strategic layer might be better represented and controlled, and how this layer might be made more interoperable with the operational layer of an enterprise system. These findings lead to an elaboration of several research issues to better enable and support those executives tasked with leading and managing an enterprise system.
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