Enterprise Architecture

Introduction


Washington’s Enterprise Architecture (EA) Program helps agencies make informed, strategic decisions that improve services and support statewide business outcomes. EA is a continuous practice that aligns business needs, data, policies, and technology so agencies can modernize responsibly and deliver better results for the people they serve. Our approach is collaborative, business-first, and focused on solving real problems with clear, practical guidance.

 

Our Guiding Principles

Graphic titled “Enterprise Architecture Principles” from WaTech (Washington Technology Solutions). The image lists eight principles with icons and brief descriptions. On the left:  Digital Equity – ensuring all individuals can participate in digital services through investment in infrastructure, technology, and skills.  Data as a Strategic Asset – treating data as a valuable, well-managed, governed, and protected resource to improve decision-making and service delivery.  Digital Trust – systems are reliable

These statewide principles shape how Washington approaches enterprise architecture and decision-making. They align with EA-01-01-S Criteria for Developing Principles for Decision Making.

 

Enterprise Services


Enterprise services are statewide solutions designed to meet common needs across agencies. Instead of each agency developing its own tools or processes, enterprise services provide shared capabilities that improve consistency, security, and efficiency throughout government. They reduce duplication, streamline operations, and create better experiences for residents and staff.

A service becomes an enterprise service through a statewide evaluation process that looks at factors such as alignment with policies, opportunities for standardization, security improvements, and long-term value (per EA-02). Once designated, enterprise services evolve over time to meet changing business, policy, and technology environments.

Enterprise services are a key part of the broader Enterprise Architecture Program defined in EA-01, helping agencies make coordinated decisions and plan for long-term success.

 

Enterprise Architect Committee (EAC)


The Enterprise Architect Committee is a statewide governance body that brings together architects from agencies across Washington to support collaborative, enterprise-scale architecture work. The EAC provides guidance, helps shape statewide architectural direction, and contributes to policies, standards, and best practices that benefit the entire enterprise. It ensures that diverse agency perspectives inform statewide decisions and that architecture efforts reflect both enterprise needs and real agency challenges.