A framework to define a generic enterprise reference architecture and methodology

Abstract

The generic enterprise reference architecture and methodology is about those methods, models and tools which are needed to build the integrated enterprise. The architecture is generic because it applies to most, potentially all types of enterprise. The coverage of the framework spans products, enterprises, enterprise integration and strategic enterprise management. The proposal for the architecture follows the architecture itself improving the quality of the presentation and of the outcome. Definitions of generic enterprise reference architecture, enterprise engineering/integration methodology, enterprise modelling languages, enterprise models, and enterprise modules are given. It is proposed how the above could be developed on the basis of previously analysed architectures (and other results too), such as the purdue enterprise reference architecture (PERA) 1, the GRAI integrated methodology 2, CIM-OSA 3, and TOVE 4. GERAM is meant to unify existing architectures rather than intending to replace them. This is achieved by ensuring that the scope of GERAM spans all areas of consideration in an enterprise.