#  Enterprise Architecture 

 



##  Enterprise Architecture at Harvard 

We guide Harvard’s technology evolution through principles, collaboration, standards, and best practices that promote interoperability, innovation, and alignment across the University.



 

 

 

       ![Abstract artwork of interwoven diagonal bands in teal, orange, cream, and brown, forming a quilt-like geometric pattern.](/sites/g/files/omnuum10526/files/styles/hwp_21_9__1920x825/public/2025-08/Firefly_EA%20Background%20Image.jpg?itok=jRB5MhOI) 

 

 



 

 



 

### Document Library 

 

Explore the Enterprise Architecture Library for published standards and best practices across all architecture layers in order to support informed decision-making across IT initiatives.



 [ Browse the Library arrow\_circle\_right ](/library-0) 

 



      ![An illustration of a bookcase filled with different colored binders and documents. ](/sites/g/files/omnuum10526/files/styles/hwp_1_1__480x480/public/2025-08/Firefly_Image%20library.jpg?h=2ed3109d&itok=1unSRvE_) 

 

 

  

 



### Architecture Layers 

 

We approach the work of defining an architecture for the University by considering each layer of our physical architecture "stack", as well as cross-cutting security requirements, and articulating a set of Principles, Standards and Resources for each layer.



 [ Explore the Layers arrow\_circle\_right ](/domains) 

 



      ![Different colored vertical bars overlapping each other.](/sites/g/files/omnuum10526/files/styles/hwp_1_1__480x480/public/2025-08/Firefly_architecture%20layers.jpg?itok=KFoO2zna) 

 

 

  

 



 

 

 

##  What Enterprise Architecture Does 

 



 looks\_one 

### Define

Articulates a set of principles and standards aligned to each architecture layer.



 

 

 looks\_two 

### Engage

Engages with IT teams across Harvard through Architecture Communities of Practice.



 

 

 looks\_3 

### Guide

Publishes guidance that promotes inter-operability and standards-based solutions.



 

 

 looks\_4 

### Review

Reviews key technology impacts across the University.



 

 

 looks\_5 

### Evolve

Evolves architecture with advances in technology.



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

##  Community Engagement 

 



  [### Architecture Communities of Practice

 ](/communities-practice)Open to the entire University

University-wide domain experts who convene regularly from across the University.



 

  [### HEART (HUIT Engineering and Architecture Review Team)

 ](/heart)Open to the entire University

Workgroup focused on reviews, approvals, and direction for HUIT-centric goals