Task: Refine Problem Definition
A problem has been identified with an IT architecture or existing system. This task clarifies the exact problem so that a solution can be found.
Disciplines: UAM IT Architecture
Purpose

A problem with a defined IT architecture or existing system has been identified. This task clarifies the issues and documents the precise problem to be solved.

Relationships
Main Description

The identified problem may be misunderstood, therefore the problem is examined in detail and precisely defined.

To do this, one of two approaches is taken:

  1. the existing architecture is examined, and the area where the problem is located is analyzed. The specific nature of the problem is documented.
  2. If no current architecture exists then the current system documentation is examined, developers and users interviewed and the specific nature of the problem is documented.

The output of this exercise is the documentation of the problem and the issues surrounding this problem.

Steps
Locate documentation and interview stakeholders
Locate the documentation for the system and interview stakeholders (i.e., developers, users, operational and support people). Gather as much information as possible about the system, and specifically about the problem.
Refine the problem definition

The identified issue or problem is examined in detail by a set of domain experts and architects. The problem and its definition is refined as required to ensure clarity and understanding.

Illustrations
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