Phase 3: Solution Architecture
Technical Execution Strategy - Define the detailed solution architecture for execution
Purpose
Define the detailed solution architecture for execution with technical execution plan that aligns with the transformation roadmap and trade-offs.
Outcome
A technical execution plan that aligns with the transformation roadmap and trade-offs
Duration
6-10 weeks
Components
4 Key Areas
Phase Components
Detailed breakdown of the key components and activities within this transformation phase.
High-Level Solution Architecture
Establish a high-level Solution Architecture (key components, integration points, technology choices)
Key Activities
- • Design solution architecture components and interactions
- • Define integration points and data flows
- • Select appropriate technology stack and platforms
- • Create solution deployment architecture
- • Validate architecture against non-functional requirements
Tools & Methods
- • Solution Architecture Template
- • Component Diagram Tools
- • Integration Patterns
- • Technology Selection Matrix
Key Participants
- • Solution architects
- • Technical leads
- • Integration specialists
Duration
3-4 weeks
Technical Trade-Offs Definition
Define technical trade-offs based on the transformation goals
Key Activities
- • Identify technical decision points and alternatives
- • Analyse performance vs. cost trade-offs
- • Evaluate scalability vs. complexity implications
- • Assess security vs. usability considerations
- • Document technical trade-off decisions and rationale
Tools & Methods
- • Technical Trade-Off Matrix
- • Performance Analysis Tools
- • Cost Modeling
- • Risk Assessment Framework
Key Participants
- • Technical architects
- • Performance engineers
- • Security specialists
Duration
2-3 weeks
Cross-Team Alignment
Create alignment between the business, IT, and operations teams to ensure smooth execution
Key Activities
- • Facilitate alignment workshops between teams
- • Define roles and responsibilities (RACI matrix)
- • Establish communication protocols and governance
- • Create shared understanding of solution architecture
- • Align on delivery approach and timelines
Tools & Methods
- • RACI Matrix
- • Communication Plan
- • Governance Framework
- • Alignment Workshop Templates
Key Participants
- • Business stakeholders
- • IT teams
- • Operations teams
- • Project managers
Duration
2-3 weeks
Solution Validation & Approval
Validate solution architecture and obtain stakeholder approval for execution
Key Activities
- • Conduct architecture review sessions
- • Validate against business requirements and constraints
- • Assess technical feasibility and risks
- • Obtain stakeholder sign-off and approval
- • Finalise solution architecture documentation
Tools & Methods
- • Architecture Review Checklist
- • Validation Framework
- • Risk Register
- • Approval Templates
Key Participants
- • Architecture review board
- • Business sponsors
- • Technical leads
Duration
1-2 weeks
Key Deliverables
Tangible outputs and artifacts that provide lasting value to your organization.
Solution Architecture Document
documentComprehensive solution architecture with components, integrations, and technology choices
Business Value
Provides detailed technical guidance for development teams and ensures architectural consistency
Technical Trade-Off Analysis
analysisDocumented technical decisions with rationale and impact assessment
Business Value
Ensures informed technical decisions and provides basis for future architectural evolution
Integration Architecture Specification
specificationDetailed integration patterns, data flows, and interface specifications
Business Value
Enables seamless system integration and reduces integration complexity and risk
Execution Alignment Plan
planCross-team alignment framework with roles, responsibilities, and governance
Business Value
Ensures smooth execution with clear accountability and coordinated delivery approach
Real-World Applications
See how organizations have successfully implemented this phase to achieve measurable results.
Manufacturing IoT Platform Architecture
Challenge
Need for real-time production monitoring across multiple facilities with legacy system integration
OCTA Solution
Comprehensive solution architecture combining IoT sensors, cloud analytics, and existing ERP integration
Outcome
Real-time production visibility with 35% improvement in operational efficiency
Download Resources
Access our comprehensive library of frameworks, templates, and guides
OCTA Framework Whitepaper
Complete guide to the Outcome-Centric Trade-Off Architecture methodology
Business Capability Assessment Template
Excel template for conducting comprehensive business capability assessments
Digital Transformation Roadmap Template
Comprehensive roadmap template for planning digital transformation initiatives
OCTA Implementation Checklist
Step-by-step checklist for implementing the OCTA methodology
Stakeholder Engagement Framework
Framework and templates for effective stakeholder engagement during transformation
Risk Assessment Matrix Template
Comprehensive risk assessment matrix for transformation projects
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