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Architecture Compliance in Banking – Framework Overview

Original URL: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/le-viet-duc-3a393b238_architecture-compliance-in-banking-ugcPost-7468594763466715136-BTbo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&rcm=ACoAABhtRLQBxMoHrrQL__ZLWOueBNAtzqlvKr8

The article presents a practical, banking‑specific framework for architecture compliance built on TOGAF’s ADM, tailored to the Vietnamese market. It argues that architecture compliance is not a bureaucratic gate‑keeper but the “immune system” that safeguards technology investments and ensures sustained value creation. The piece outlines a structured process, a set of conformance levels, a detailed checklist, and the governance roles required to embed compliance into everyday banking operations.

Context: Why Enterprise Architecture Matters

  • Complex integrations drive up operational costs.
  • Data silos delay regulatory reporting.
  • Violations are often discovered only after go‑live.
  • The real obstacle is architectural governance, not technology itself.

Architecture Compliance Framework Overview

  • TOGAF ADM Cycle: Emphasizes Phase G (Implementation Governance) as the compliance gateway.
  • 18 Conformance Levels: Journey from “Irrelevant” to “Fully Conformant” with an ARB decision framework mapping each level. - Principles:
  • Architecture compliance is an immune system protecting investment value.
  • Architecture acts as a trusted advisor, not an audit unit.

8‑Domain Compliance Checklist- Infrastructure

  • Middleware
  • Application
  • Data
  • Security
  • Operations
  • Engineering
  • Solutions
  • Banking‑specific layers: SBV/NHNN, PCI‑DSS, Basel III, DORA.

TOGAF Process & Banking‑Tailored Steps1. Intake & Classification 2. Multi‑dimensional Assessment – 5 viewpoints + BIAN alignment. 3. ARB Decision – Strategic/Enterprise/Technical review.

  1. Architecture Contract Signing
  2. Post‑Implementation Architecture Review - The process is mapped to a 12‑step TOGAF workflow, adapted for banking project lifecycles.

Governance Roles and Responsibilities

  • ARCHitecture Board (ARB) – Strategic, Enterprise, Technical levels.
  • Chief Architect – Oversees overall governance.
  • Enterprise/Domain EA – Aligns domain strategies.
  • Solution Architect – Ensures solution conformance.
  • EA Office – Coordinates governance activities. - Project Manager, Business/Product Owner, Control Functions – Integrate compliance into delivery.

Key Takeaway

Effective architecture compliance blends rigorous governance with a trusted advisory role, turning compliance from a hurdle into a catalyst for resilient digital transformation.

Conclusion

The draft framework demonstrates that architecture compliance can be operationalized through: - A clear, stage‑gated TOGAF process.
- Sixteen defined conformance levels linked to an ARB decision matrix.
- An eight‑domain checklist that embeds regulatory requirements (SBV/NHNN, PCI‑DSS, Basel III, DORA).
- Defined governance roles that distributed responsibility across the banking ecosystem.

The author invites the EA community to share experiences: Does this reflect your reality? What challenges do you face? Constructive feedback and differing practices are welcomed to refine the approach.

Next Steps

  • Adopt the checklist as a baseline for your next architecture review.
  • Pilot the 12‑step TOGAF process on a low‑risk project to validate governance effectiveness.
  • Engage with the Architecture Board early to embed compliance culture.