What is a gap analysis in TOGAF?

A gap analysis in TOGAF is fundamentally a method for identifying the differences between the current and target architectures. This process allows organizations to assess their present capabilities and compare them against their desired future state, revealing the specific gaps that need to be addressed to achieve strategic objectives.

In the TOGAF framework, understanding these gaps is critical, as it guides the planning and implementation of changes required to evolve from the current architecture to the target architecture. By conducting a thorough gap analysis, organizations can prioritize initiatives, allocate resources effectively, and ensure that their transformation efforts are aligned with business goals.

This focus on comparing what exists with what is needed provides a structured approach to decision-making, enabling stakeholders to clearly see where improvements are necessary and where gaps may inhibit progress. Such clarity helps in designing tailored solutions to close the identified gaps strategically, making it an essential component of enterprise architecture practices.