Models
Architecture Interrogatives
A critical part of defining an architecture is answering what is known as, the set of standard interrogatives, which are the set of questions, who, what, when, where, why, and how, that facilitate collection and usage of architecture-related data. DoDAF provides a means of answering these interrogatives through the DoDAF Viewpoints and DoDAF-described Models, and the DoDAF Meta-model Data Groups, as the major parts of the DoDAF Conceptual Data Model (CDM).
The table below is a simple matrix that presents the DoDAF Viewpoints and DoDAF-described Models as they relate to the DoDAF Meta-model Groups, and how these viewpoints, models, and groups answer the standard interrogatives. When architecture is required to support decision-making, the matrix is useful in both data collection, and decisions on how to best represent the data in DoDAF-described Models that are appropriate to the purpose for which the architecture is created.
Standard Interrogatives Matrix
As an example, a decision is required on changing a logistics transaction process (a composite of activities). The process is documented (how), to include the measures of performance, services required, and the capability supported by the action (activity). Data required to execute the process (what) is collected concurrently. Included in that data collection is the location and other administrative data on the place of process execution (where), and the performers of the action (who). The time frames required (when) and the Rules, Goals, and Expected Results (why) are also determined. These interrogatives impact on measures of performance. Each of these interrogatives can be represented by either a DoDAF-described Model or a Fit-for-Purpose View defined by the architectural development team that meets agency requirements. Either way, the models and views needed are created utilizing data defined and derived from the DoDAF Meta-model.
The architecture interrogatives are overlaid on the DM2 Conceptual Data Model below:
- The Data Description - What (DM2 generalizes to other Resources besides just Data)
- The Function Description - How (and also the Performer that performs the Function, Measures, Rules, and Conditions associated with)
- The Network Description - Where (generalized)
- The People Description - Who (DM2 includes Organizations)
- The Time Description - When
- The Motivation Description - Why (broadened to include Capability requirements)
Architecture Interrogative overlay on the DM2 Conceptual Data Model
(click to enlarge)