Which of the following should be prioritized when developing an enterprise architecture?

Prioritizing business capabilities and strategic alignment when developing an enterprise architecture is critical because it ensures that the architecture supports the organization's goals and objectives. This alignment helps to create a cohesive approach to the organization’s strategic initiatives, ensuring that the technology, processes, and structures are all geared toward the same vision. By focusing on business capabilities, enterprises can enhance their operational efficiency, adapt to market changes, and effectively leverage their resources to create value. This foundational element guarantees that any subsequent decisions, whether related to technology implementation or resource allocation, are framed within the context of what best serves the organization’s strategic aims.

In contrast, while cost-cutting strategies, branding improvements, and IT equipment upgrades might be important in their own right, they do not inherently ensure that the architecture is aligned with the overarching business strategy. Focusing solely on these aspects can lead to fragmented efforts that might yield short-term gains but fail to sustain long-term organizational success.