Chapter 7. ArchiMate

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  10. ArchiMate Viewpoint: Capability Map Viewoint

ArchiMate Viewpoint: Capability Map Viewoint

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In the ArchiMate language, a viewpoint is a relevant subset of ArchiMate elements and relationships, put together on a diagram in representing a particular part of an architecture. ArchiMate suggests a set of example viewpoints. Each of them comprises elements from different layers. Besides, the Grouping element, Junction, and Or Junction can be used in every viewpoint. These basic viewpoints can be used as starting points for modeling efforts. But keep in mind that these example viewpoints should not constrain modeling activities. Organizations should modify the example viewpoints or even to design their own viewpoints in addressing specific stakeholder concerns. This article describes one of the many example viewpoints – The Capability Map Viewpoint.

What is an Capability Map Viewpoint?

According to ArchiMate 3.1 specification:

The capability map viewpoint allows the business architect to create a structured overview of the capabilities of the enterprise. A capability map typically shows two or three levels of capabilities across the entire enterprise. It can, for example, be used as a heat map to identify areas of investment. In some cases, a capability map may also show specific outcomes delivered by these capabilities.

The table below describes Capability Map Viewpoint in more detail.

Attribute Value
Stakeholders Business managers, enterprise and business architects
Concerns Architecture strategy and tactics, motivation
Purpose Designing, deciding
Scope Strategy

Capability Map Viewpoint Example

The figure below shows an ArchiMate diagram created under the Capability Map Viewpoint. By applying a viewpoint you are allowed to draw an ArchiMate diagram with a subset of ArchiMate elements and relationships, as defined under the viewpoint.
Capability Map Viewpoint example

How to apply Capability Map Viewpoint?

To apply Capability Map Viewpoint (or any other viewpoint) involves two main steps. The first step is to configure your project to use the viewpoint. The second step is to edit your diagram by selecting the viewpoint.

Project configuration

  1. Select Modeling > Manage Viewpoint from the application toolbar.
    To manage ArchiMate Viewpoints
  2. This shows the Viewpoint tab. Click Add at bottom left.
    To add a viewpoint into the project
  3. This shows the list of example viewpoints. Select Capability Map Viewpoint. The stakeholder, purpose, concerns and related elements are presented on the right.
  4. Click Done.
  5. Click OK to confirm.

Setting a viewpoint to diagram

To apply Capability Map Viewpoint on an ArchiMate diagram:

  1. Right click on the ArchiMate diagram and select Open Specification… from the popup menu.
    Opening diagram specification
  2. Open the Viewpoint tab.
  3. Select Capability Map Viewpoint.
  4. Click OK to return to the diagram. From now on, you can select the subset of ArchiMate elements and relationships defined under the Capability Map Viewpoint.