Forget EA Nirvana: Assessing EA Maturity

Enterprise architecture (EA) maturity models abound. Each comes with its own opinion on EA maturity, its own system for scoring it, and a single set of beliefs on the proper role of EA within a firm. Forrester's EA maturity model approaches maturity from a different angle; it is not structured around a belief in a single end state for all EA teams but rather around a set of distinct value objectives that change depending on the EA group's mission. Maturity in this case is synonymous with alignment with stakeholder needs and the ability execute upon missions. The output from "Forrester's EA Maturity Assessment, Q3 2011" tool will help EA leaders define and communicate their direction and value in a variety of ways depending on the unique challenge EA faces.