A solution to a problem has been identified and this task examines its possible impacts on the system or enterprise. All possible impacts on the existing IT architecture are defined. These impacts may be at the Business level (e.g. business processes or other aspects are affected), Logical level (e.g. a revised Logical level IT architecture is needed) or the Technical level (e.g. new technology is a simple substitute for existing technology, but with benefits).

The objective of this task is to understand the new or changed solution and its impacts on the existing IT architecture or system. The bottom line of this impact study is to define all impacts, and then to determine the level of impact:

1. Business - business level models need to be revised;
2. Logical - the new solution does not have business process or services implications, but does have implications on the current IT architecture, which would have to be revised starting at the Logical level;
3. Technical - the new solution does not have significant architectural implications; it is a direct substitute for existing technology, but with benefits. Technical level models require revision. 

Once the level of impact has been determined then the next step is to do a more thorough analysis of the opportunities, and to make a go or no-go decision.

An Architectural Decision is used to capture and track this analysis if necessary.

If the solution to the problem is the introduction of a new technology then an impact assessment may be required. See: Task: Define Technology Change Impacts.