A Comparison between Enterprise-Architecture Methodologies

Roger Sessions explains comparisons between top 4 architecture methodologies in this article.
None of the methodologies fulfills the enterprise architecture however they can be viewed as -

• The Zachman Framework for Enterprise Architectures—Although self-described as a framework, is actually more accurately defined as a taxonomy
• The Open Group Architectural Framework (TOGAF)—Although called a framework, is actually more accurately defined as a process
• The Federal Enterprise Architecture—Can be viewed as either an implemented enterprise architecture or a proscriptive methodology for creating an enterprise architecture
• The Gartner Methodology—Can be best described as an enterprise architectural practice

Following table shows ratings for these four methodologies -

• 1: Does a very poor job in this area
• 2: Does an inadequate job in this area
• 3: Does an acceptable job in this area
• 4: Does a very good job in this area