2                      Definitions

For the purposes of this standard, the following terms and definitions apply. The TOGAF^® framework [4] should be referenced for Enterprise Architecture-related terms not defined in this chapter. Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary (11^th Edition) should be referenced for all other terms not defined in this chapter.

Any conflict between definitions described here and the TOGAF framework is unintentional. If the definition of a term is specific to the ArchiMate modeling language, and a general definition is defined by the TOGAF framework, then this is noted in the definition.

2.1                 ArchiMate Core Framework

A reference structure used to classify elements of the ArchiMate core language. It consists of three layers and three aspects.

Note:     The ArchiMate Core Framework is defined in detail in Section 3.4.

2.2                 ArchiMate Core Language

The central part of the ArchiMate language that defines the concepts to model Enterprise Architectures. It includes concepts from three layers: Business, Application, and Technology (including Physical).

2.3                 Architecture View

A representation of a system from the perspective of a related set of concerns.

Note:      In some sections of this standard, the term “view” is used as a synonym for “architecture view”.

2.4                 Architecture Viewpoint

A specification of the conventions for a particular kind of architecture view.

Note:      In some sections of this standard, the term “viewpoint” is used as a synonym for “architecture viewpoint”.

2.5                 Aspect

Classification of elements based on layer-independent characteristics related to the concerns of different stakeholders. Used for positioning elements in the ArchiMate metamodel. See also Section 2.9.

Note:     Aspects are described in Section 3.4.

2.6                 Attribute

A property associated with an ArchiMate language element or relationship.

2.7                 Composite Element

An element consisting of other elements from multiple aspects or layers of the language.

2.8                 Concept

Either an element, a relationship, or a relationship connector. See also Section 2.12 and Section 2.14.

Note:      The top-level language structure is defined in detail in Section 3.2.

2.9                 Conformance

Fulfillment of specified requirements.

2.10             Conforming Implementation

An implementation which satisfies the conformance requirements defined by the conformance clause of this standard. See Section 1.3.

2.11             Core Element

A structure or behavior element in one of the core layers of the ArchiMate language.

Note:     Core elements are described in detail in Section 3.4.

2.12             Element

Basic unit in the ArchiMate metamodel. Used to define and describe the constituent parts of Enterprise Architectures and their unique set of characteristics.

2.13             Layer

An abstraction of the ArchiMate framework at which an enterprise can be modeled.

2.14             Model

A collection of concepts in the context of the ArchiMate language structure.

Note:      The top-level language structure is defined in detail in Section 3.2.

For a general definition of model, see the TOGAF framework [4].

2.15             Relationship

A connection between a source and target concept. Classified as structural, dependency, dynamic, or other.

Note:      Relationships are defined in detail in Chapter 5.

Downloads

Downloads of the ArchiMate documentation are available under license from the Download link within the ArchiMate information web site. The license is free to any organization wishing to use ArchiMate documentation entirely for internal purposes. A book is also available from The Open Group Library as document C197.