Enterprise Architecture Training - six steps to using information effectively
training overview	step 1 gaining commitment	step 2 deciding requirements	step 3 creating a toolkit	step 4 developing a map	step 5 using information effectively	step 6 gathering feedback

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Step 4: Developing a map

Find out what information is necessary, valuable and distinctive for your business success.

Intrepid explorers use a map to explore difficult or unusual terrain. During this step you build a map of the information that is critical to run your business. An information "map" charts all of the relevant information and shows links and groupings between information items. It includes "information about information", including who has responsibilities over information (things like ownership and stewardship), who uses information and how the information is or could be used.

The outputs from this step include:

• information maps
• detailed information models, such as business process models, data models, or strategy models
• practical applications for business or management theories
• an understanding of the mental models that guide our thoughts and actions

This material allows you to analyse how information is used and explore alternative ways of using it. It is an excellent way to document insights into the use of information that are unique to your organisation or to develop new and innovative ways of using information to distinguish your products and services from competitors! The bottom line is that information pervades everything we do - so using it more effectively results in better business and management decisions, happier customers, higher profits, reduced operating costs, and a host of other benefits.

If you don't have a map:

• You are wandering around like a lost soul in a difficult and unfriendly environment! Imagine trying to find your way around an unfamiliar city without some form of guidebook and map - very poetic, but you get the idea.
• Each separate project and process will gather its own knowledge to create and use the information it needs - resulting in much duplication of effort and higher costs.
• It will be difficult to train and educate staff in how to use information in the best possible ways.
• It will be difficult and time-consuming to find the right business or management models.
• Valuable information value chains remain hidden and unavailable for use.

Developing a comprehensive map can be very time-consuming, expensive and high-risk process! Fortunately significant parts of a map are generic, with a growing number of "starter-kits" to get you going. Some of the material available in the market place has a very technical orientation. The best materials are those that use simple and clear definitions, with plenty of examples and thorough explanation of supporting business theory and how to apply it.

I have developed a set of generic information maps that are probably the leading product in this field. Contact me if you would like more details.

Training modules cover:

• Developing and using information maps
• What to look for when buying maps or generic business models
• Designing an Enterprise Business Model
• Facilitation skills for running workshops
• Understanding the information model management cycle
• Capturing knowledge and other forms of intellectual assets

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