Architecture Review Board (ARB) Charter Template
What is Architecture Review Board (ARB) Charter Template?
The Architecture Review Board (ARB) Charter Template serves as a formal document that outlines the purpose, structure, roles, responsibilities, and processes of the ARB within an organization, acting as a governance framework aligned with best practices and methodologies such as TOGAF. This template typically includes sections detailing the ARB's objectives, which include ensuring architectural compliance with organizational standards, facilitating collaboration among stakeholders, and fostering the strategic alignment of IT initiatives with business goals. By defining the scope of review processes, membership criteria, decision-making authority, and communication protocols, the ARB Charter establishes a clear foundation for evaluating and approving architectural decisions, thereby enhancing accountability, reducing risk, and promoting alignment with the enterprise architecture vision.
Architecture Review Board (ARB) Charter Template
1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of this document is to define the objectives, scope, structure, and processes of the Architecture Review Board (ARB) in the context of Enterprise Architecture.
1.2 Background
Provide a brief overview of the organization's Enterprise Architecture efforts and rationale for the establishment of the ARB.
2. Objectives
- Ensure alignment of IT projects with enterprise goals and strategies.
- Review and approve architectural designs and solutions.
- Promote best practices and standards in architecture development and implementation.
- Facilitate communication and collaboration between various stakeholder groups.
3. Scope
The scope of the ARB includes but is not limited to:
- Reviewing architecture proposals and designs from various projects.
- Assessing the compliance of proposed solutions with established architecture principles and standards.
- Evaluating potential risks associated with architectural decisions.
4. Membership
4.1 Composition
The ARB will be composed of members from the following areas:
- Enterprise Architecture team
- IT Governance
- Product Development
- Operations
- Security
- Business stakeholders
4.2 Roles and Responsibilities
- Chairperson: Coordinate meetings, set agendas, and represent the ARB.
- Members: Attend meetings, contribute expertise, and provide feedback on architectural proposals.
- Secretary: Document meeting minutes and maintain records of decisions.
5. Meeting Structure
5.1 Frequency
The ARB will meet [insert frequency, e.g., bi-weekly, monthly].
5.2 Agenda
The standard agenda will include:
- Review of previous meeting minutes
- Discussion of submitted architectural proposals
- Open floor for new business
5.3 Decision-Making Process
Decisions will be made by consensus. In case of disagreements, a voting process may occur (define votes required for approval).
6. Review Process
6.1 Submission of Proposals
Project teams must submit architectural proposals using the designated template at least [insert timeframe, e.g., one week] prior to the ARB meeting.
6.2 Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Alignment with business goals
- Compliance with architecture standards
- Feasibility and risk assessment
- Impact on existing systems
7. Documentation
All ARB decisions and rationale will be documented and stored in a central repository accessible to stakeholders.
8. Reporting
The ARB will report to [insert relevant governance body or senior management] through regular updates summarizing activities, decisions, and any escalated issues.
9. Review and Amendments
This charter will be reviewed annually or as needed, and amendments will require approval from the ARB.
10. Approval
This charter is hereby approved by:
- Chairperson: ________ Date: ____
- Member: ________ Date: ___
- Member: ________ Date: ___
Related:
External links:
- TBD