Digital transformation process, why should we build a “4A” architecture?

The 4A architecture in digital transformation includes: business architecture BA, data architecture DA, application architecture AA, and technology architecture TA.

Simply put, business architecture defines "what to do", data architecture and application architecture define "what data to use" and "how to do it", while technical architecture focuses on "what to do".

Business architecture: Business architecture is the strategic blueprint of an enterprise, which defines and optimizes business processes and ensures that business goals are consistent with daily operations. For example, if your goal is to provide responsive customer service, your business structure will need to design workflows and departmental collaboration methods that support this goal.

Data architecture: Data architecture focuses on the management and use of data. Data is the basis for decision-making, so you need to ensure that the data is accurate, reliable, and can be accessed quickly. For example, if you want to tailor marketing campaigns based on customer purchase history, you'll need a data architecture that can store and analyze this data.

Application Architecture: Application architecture involves the software systems that support business processes. These systems need to work efficiently and be able to adapt and scale as business needs change. For example, if your business grows, you need an application that can handle more orders, rather than having to handle them manually every time the order volume increases.

Technical architecture: Technical architecture is the foundation of all IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, cloud computing services, etc. A robust technology architecture ensures your business continuity, reduces downtime, and provides the necessary resources to support business needs. For example, if your website is your primary sales channel, you'll need a technical infrastructure that can handle high traffic to prevent the site from crashing during peak hours.

If digital transformation is compared to building a house:

Business architecture is like the design and functional planning of the house. You first have to decide how many rooms the house has, what each room is used for (such as living room, bedroom, kitchen, etc.), how these rooms are connected to each other, and the structure of the house. Overall style……

Application architecture is like the architectural structure of a house. You need to decide what materials (such as bricks, wood, steel, etc.) will be used to build the house and how these materials will fit together...

Data architecture is like the plumbing system of a house. You need to install water pipes and electrical wiring in the house to ensure that water comes when the faucet is turned on, and the lights turn on when the switch is pressed...

Technical architecture is like the infrastructure of a house, including the foundation, power supply system, water supply system, etc. Without these infrastructures, houses cannot be built or used properly…

So, these four structures are like different aspects of building a house, none of them can be separated. Without proper planning, a house may leak, lose power, or not be built at all.