Abstract

Enterprise Architecture (EA) is a tool used by organizations to align strategy, business processes, and information technology (IT). Unfortunately, enterprise-level strategy is often not adequately encompassed by EA in such a way that it facilitates strategic IT alignment. Without such strategic orientation, EA may not provide benefits anticipated by firms using EA, such as enhanced levels of inter- and intra-organizational collaboration, agility, and performance. In this study, we examine organizational-level factors that might contribute to the degree to which EA embodies firm strategy from a diffusion of innovation perspective. Based on extant innovation routinization literature, we propose a model consisting of formal guidance addressing EA, EA training, funding to support EA, and EA strategic orientation. We show that organizations can dramatically enhance the level their EA embodies firm strategy and potentially, their bottom line, by employing formal guidance addressing EA, increasing EA training, and providing resources in support of EA.

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