I’ve tried this metaphor on several client calls recently, so let me inflict it on you too.
Cactus
via Flickr, the cc licence of Rodolfo Cartas thanks.
In this architecture, everything is from one vendor, and integration with third party applications is rather difficult. Typical ERP /HRMS pitch of the mid-nineties. Why do you need other software? We can do everything.
Sunflower
via Flickr, the cc licence of C.S. 2.0 Thanks
Big core system, running most of the processes, with a series of smaller, tactical solutions interfaced around the edges. Typical HR IT architecture of many ERP-Centric organizations today. ERP runs the core transactions, with bits of SaaS tacked on around on the edges.
Daisy
via Flickr, the cc licence of law_keven Thanks
Small core system on premise, but most of the action takes place in the systems around the edges. Increasingly common as SaaS vendors continue to deliver richer functionality. Some challenges with integration, as there are many applications trying to connect to the core.
Rose
via Flickr, the cc licence of Gertrud K. Thanks
No significant core system, SaaS petals dominate. Still very rare, but we expect to see more of these, challenging the traditional core and peripheral model.
What sort of flower does your architecture represent?
October 16, 2009 at 2:18 pm
nice metaphor – I will use it as well (with your copyright …)
October 19, 2009 at 10:21 pm
Beautiful and thought-provoking … I look forward to the paper
November 17, 2009 at 12:53 pm
I wonder if you ever read the Oracle Concepts Manual in the olden days…. it also had some gems like:
http://www.camden.rutgers.edu/HELP/Documentation/Oracle/server.815/a67781/c01intro.htm#12981
Chapter 1 Introduction to the Oracle Server
I am Sir Oracle,
And when I ope my lips, let no dog bark!
Shakespeare: The Merchant of Venice
Chapter 7 Memory Architecture
Yea, from the table of my memory I’ll wipe away all trivial fond records.
Shakespeare: Hamlet
Chapter 8 Process Architecture
If the good people, in their wisdom, shall see fit to keep me in the background, I have been too familiar with disappointments to be very much chagrined.
Abraham Lincoln, Address at New Salem (1832)
Chapter 11
Partitioned Tables and Indexes
Like to a double cherry, seeming parted,
But yet an union in partition;
Two lovely berries molded on one stem.
Wm. Shakespeare: A Midsummer-Night’s Dream