Architecture is a relatively vague term for many people. Architects have a hard time clearly articulating what the added value is of an architecture. This leads to scepticism within the organization. This, in turn, may cause the architects to doubt themselves and whether they are pursuing the appropriate solutions. Even worse, it may cause them to put on blinders and focus completely on content detail. 
These sorts of reactions can be prevented by defining a clear vision statement for working within architecture. Such an architectural vision statement forms a crucial basis upon which decisions and choices can be made relevant to the definition and implementation of the architecture functionality. This architectural vision statement, documented in a vision document, functions as a common starting point for all architectural initiatives. 

This starting point keeps the architects focussed. The architects are able to focus on their solutions without getting mired in the details, as long as the expectations of architectural added value are clear. Additionally it creates confidence: you know why you’re doing something. 

A clear vision document also forms a consistent foundation for communication. The vision statement can be used as a basis in presentations; news letters and publications. The confidence of the organisation in the architecture is reinforced. 

The most important elements of an architectural vision are:   

• The reason for working with an architecture;
• The objectives to be achieved;
• What do we mean by architecture - the definition of architecture;
• The services that architecture provides the organisation;
• How to organize the architectural function.    

A good vision document will consist of 3 A4 sheets. The core of the architectural vision statement should be able to be defined within these limits. Should that not be the case, the vision might be too complex. Additional detail, e.g. related to services and organization, could always be appended in one or more attachments. 

Click here to download a template of the vision document.