Introduction
What is Information in Orthogramic?
In Orthogramic, Information is a foundational domain of the business architecture that captures, organizes, and governs the data and knowledge critical to an organization’s operations and strategic decisions. Unlike BIZBOK, which treats Information primarily as a static domain focused on documentation and classification, Orthogramic integrates Information dynamically with other business architecture domains, making it an active component that supports real-time decision-making and strategic alignment. This interconnected approach ensures that Information is not just about what data an organization has, but how that data is used, shared, and leveraged across the business to drive performance and achieve objectives.
In Orthogramic, Information is closely linked to other domains such as Capabilities, Value Streams, Products, Stakeholders, and Policies. These relationships are managed through a detailed structure of attributes, elements, and sub-elements, allowing organizations to understand how Information supports and influences different aspects of their business. For example, Information might be connected to specific Capabilities that require data for execution or associated with Value Streams where Information flows between various activities. This interconnectedness provides a more comprehensive view of how Information contributes to the overall business architecture, ensuring that data is contextualized and relevant to organizational goals.
A key distinction between Orthogramic and BIZBOK is how Information is maintained and utilized. In BIZBOK, Information is often documented in a static format, relying on data catalogs, classification schemes, and manual updates to keep records current. This traditional method can lead to delays in accessing relevant data, particularly when the business environment changes rapidly. Orthogramic, in contrast, employs advanced automation and real-time data integration, allowing Information to be continuously updated and aligned with business needs. This means that as the business landscape evolves, Information in Orthogramic remains accurate and relevant, supporting agile decision-making and reducing the risk of relying on outdated or incomplete data.
Orthogramic’s use of AI and machine learning also sets it apart from the BIZBOK approach to Information management. The platform can analyze patterns in data usage, identify trends, and recommend adjustments to Information architecture based on predictive insights. This capability allows organizations to anticipate changes in Information requirements and proactively adjust how data is collected, managed, and shared. In contrast, BIZBOK often relies on periodic information audits and assessments, which may not capture emerging needs or trends quickly enough. Orthogramic’s predictive analytics enable a forward-looking approach to Information, ensuring that data management is not only reactive but anticipatory.
Another area where Orthogramic differs significantly from BIZBOK is in its emphasis on contextualizing Information. In BIZBOK, Information is often treated as an isolated resource that must be classified and stored, with less focus on how it interacts with other domains. Orthogramic, however, integrates Information directly into the workflow of the organization, ensuring that it is immediately accessible to those who need it. For example, Information in Orthogramic can be linked to Policies that govern data use or Capabilities that rely on specific data inputs, providing context that makes Information more actionable and relevant. This contextualization transforms Information from static data into a living asset that directly influences business operations and strategic choices.
Orthogramic’s Information domain also includes a focus on data governance and quality, embedding rules and guidelines within the Information architecture itself. This governance ensures that data is not only accessible but accurate, secure, and compliant with internal and external standards. In BIZBOK, data governance is often a separate consideration, requiring dedicated documentation and management processes outside the core Information domain. Orthogramic embeds governance into every aspect of Information management, ensuring that data quality and compliance are continuously monitored and enforced. This integrated approach simplifies data governance and reduces the administrative burden typically associated with maintaining high data standards.
The democratization of Information access is another key feature that differentiates Orthogramic from BIZBOK. In BIZBOK, access to Information may be restricted to specialized roles or departments, limiting the flow of data across the organization. Orthogramic, on the other hand, provides a user-friendly interface that enables a broader range of roles—from business architects to operational staff—to access, share, and utilize Information. This inclusivity ensures that Information is not locked away in silos but is available to support collaborative decision-making and cross-functional initiatives.
In summary, Information in Orthogramic is not a static asset to be catalogued and stored, as it often is in BIZBOK, but a dynamic, integrated resource that drives business performance and strategic alignment. By embedding Information within the broader business architecture and linking it to other domains, Orthogramic transforms data from a passive resource into an active driver of organizational success. This modern approach enables organizations to maintain data relevance, anticipate changes, and make informed decisions faster than traditional, documentation-heavy methods. Orthogramic’s holistic, real-time, and predictive methodology empowers organizations to leverage Information not just for operational efficiency but for achieving long-term strategic goals.
Information details
Each Information detail page describes the structure and flow of information within the organization, including data models and information flow diagrams. This ensures that information management supports strategic decision-making and operational efficiency. It is reached from Business Architecture > Information.
Information attributes
Domain | Attribute | Description | Example |
Information | Title | The name or title of the information management element. | Data Dictionary |
Information | Description | A detailed explanation of what the information management element entails. | Definitions and descriptions of data elements used within the organization. |
Information | Purpose | The intended purpose or function of the information management element within the organization. | To ensure consistent understanding and use of data elements. |
Information | Owner | The individual or team responsible for the information management element. | Data Management Team |
Information | Organizational Unit | The organizational unit(s) to which the information management element is linked. | IT Department |
Information | Inputs | The resources, information, or materials required for the information management element. | Data definitions, metadata |
Information | Outputs | The deliverables or results produced by the information management element. | Data dictionary entries |
Information | Processes | The set of processes that define how the information management element operates. | Data collection, data definition |
Information | Performance Indicators | Metrics used to measure the effectiveness and efficiency of the information management element. | Accuracy of data definitions, frequency of updates |
Information | Dependencies | Other elements, processes, or systems that the information management element depends on. | Database management system, metadata repository |
Information | Related Information Elements | Information elements that are related or linked to this element. | Data models, information flow diagrams |
Information | Maturity Level | The current maturity level of the information management element. | Level 3 - Defined |
Information | Tools and Technologies | Tools and technologies used to support or enable the information management element. | Metadata management tools, data catalog software |
Information | Compliance and Standards | Regulatory requirements and standards the information management element must adhere to. | ISO 8000, industry-specific standards |
Information | Cost | The financial cost associated with implementing and maintaining the information management element. | Annual budget of $100,000 |
Information | Risks | Potential risks associated with the information management element and its operations. | Inconsistent data definitions, outdated information |
Information | Improvement Opportunities | Areas where the information management element can be enhanced or improved. | Automated data dictionary updates, enhanced data governance |
Information | Strategic Alignment | How the information management element aligns with the organization's strategic goals and objectives. | Supports the strategic goal of improving data quality |
Information | Information Component | A piece of data or information used within the organization to support various processes and decision-making. | Customer Data includes personal details, purchase history, and preferences. |
Information | Parent | A high-level policy that provides overarching principles or rules guiding business operations. It covers multiple sub-policies. | Customer Management |
Information | Child | A specific policy that falls under a broader parent policy. It provides detailed rules and guidelines for a specific aspect of business operations. | Customer Onboarding |
Information Element
Elements | Sub-Element | Description | Example |
Information Element | Title | The name or title of the information component. | Customer Data |
Information Element | Description | A detailed explanation of the information component. | Information related to customers including personal details, purchase history, and preferences. |
Information Element | Purpose | The intended use or function of the information component. | To personalize customer interactions and improve service quality. |
Information Element | Owner | The individual or team responsible for managing the information. | Data Management Team |
Information Element | Organizational Unit | The organizational unit(s) using the information component. | Sales and Marketing, Customer Service |
Information Element | Data Sources | The sources from which the information is collected. | CRM System, Online Forms |
Information Element | Data Quality | The quality measures and standards for the information component. | Accuracy, Completeness, Consistency |
Information Element | Security | The security measures applied to protect the information. | Encryption, Access Controls |