An enterprise architecture mapping approach for realizing e-government

Non-interoperability between government agencies, electronic service delivery mechanisms, and the lack of formulated modeling and implementation framework are the main methodological problems in achieving seamless electronic government (e-government) integration. The integration of e-government and interoperability of systems servicing the implementation of e-government through the adoption of adequate Enterprise Architecture (EA) frameworks is of utmost importance. This paper explores the concepts of e-government, EA, and the link that exists between them. It focuses on the top four EA frameworks namely: Zachman framework; the Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF); the Federal Enterprise Architecture (FEA); and the Gartner Methodology. These can serve as the basis for the implementation of e-government. The paper proposes an EA benchmarking model based on a dual mapping approach that is on Zachman framework and the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). The mapping onto Zachman framework is done horizontally and vertically. The mapping on SDLC considers all the phases constituting the lifecycle. The proposed mapping aims at providing guidelines for the selection of an EA framework and identifying the framework that is best aligned with stakeholders' needs.