Who is responsible for validating the architecture deliverables against business objectives?

The Architecture Review Board holds the responsibility for validating the architecture deliverables against business objectives. This group is typically composed of a mix of stakeholders, including representatives from various business units and IT, who are tasked with ensuring that the architecture aligns with the overarching business goals and requirements. Their role is critical because they provide a structured mechanism to review and confirm that the architecture not only meets technical standards but also addresses the business needs effectively.

The Architecture Review Board typically assesses whether the solutions proposed meet the requirements set forth in the architectural principles and guidelines, ensuring that the architecture is viable and sustainable from a business perspective. This validation process helps to prevent misalignment and ensures that projects deliver value to the business.

Other roles, such as the Chief Technology Officer or Project Manager, may contribute to the process or provide oversight, but the specific validation function rests with the Architecture Review Board. Stakeholders themselves may provide input, but they typically do not engage in the direct review process; rather, they are recipients of the outcomes determined by the board.