The first focus of the information to be found is in the area of what the organization looks like in terms of internal and external interaction. It is interesting and necessary to take stock of what the organization looks like in terms of relationships between departments and boards, as well as between suppliers and partners. External parties often play a significant role as well. An Organization Map is used to visualize the internal and external relationships.
Definition
An Organization Map contains the key organizational units, partners, and stakeholder groups that make up the enterprise ecosystem. The map should also depict the working relationship between those entities, as distinct from an organizational chart that only shows hierarchical reporting relationships. The map is typically depicted as a network or web of relationships and interactions between the various business entities [1].
As the quote above indicates, the key is to map the organizational units (the business units or departments). Key stakeholders, suppliers and partners should also be included in the overview.
Applying the method
Start by looking at the company’s organizational chart. This often provides a good insight into the different departments or business units within the organization. Conversations can be held with these units to gather additional information. The Organization Map should show the relationships between the organizational units on the one hand and the stakeholders (internal and external) on the other. This is different from an organization chart, which only describes the internal hierarchical relationships. An Organization Map typically shows a web or network of relationships between the different business units (divisions or departments).
Gathering information
To arrive at an Organization Map, the following questions can be asked:
- Where is the unit or department located hierarchically in the organization where the work is performed?
- Does it collaborate with other departments or units within the organization?
- Does it collaborate with partners and suppliers?
The answers to these questions should provide a picture of the business unit’s hierarchical position within the organization and its relationships with other internal units. They should also answer any partnerships with partners and suppliers.
Creating the map
An Organization Map is created by connecting the business units, partners, and suppliers to the organization itself.
- Start with the organization (shown in the center of the figure) and link the boards and business units to it.
- Then link the partners and suppliers to the appropriate organizational units.
- Have stakeholders test the model for accuracy.
- Capture the Organization Map in the Architecture Repository
More information
For additional information about creating an Organization Map, please refer to Chapter 8, Section 8.2.1.1, of my book Getting Started with Enterprise Architecture.
Back to
[1] The Open Group, Applying the Organization Map, in The TOGAF® Standard, 10th Edition, Architecture Development Method, ’s-Hertogenbosch: Van Haren Publishing, 2022.