1. Introduction

1.1 Document Purpose

The purpose of this document is to describe and elaborate on the National Overall Reference Architecture (NORA) that will be used as a guide for government agencies to develop their own Enterprise Architecture (EA). This document also describes, to some extent, how NORA is linked to the overall National Enterprise Architecture (NEA) Framework.

1.2 National Enterprise Architecture (NEA) Framework

The National Enterprise Architecture (NEA) Framework is a key element for the national Digital envisioned to incorporate a federate approach to enterprise architecture for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). NEA Framework supports the identification of reusable components and services and facilitates a basis for Information Technology (IT) investment optimization. In addition, NEA enables more cost-effective and timely delivery of e-services through a repository of standards, principles, and reference models that assist in the design and delivery of business services to citizens, residents, commercial establishments, and inter- government collaboration.

1.3 Goals of NORA

The goals of NORA are as follows.

• Define the scope and requirements of the EA at the government agencies.

• Help government agencies to have a smooth and effective EA implementation.

• Ensure quality of government agency's EA through systematic processes and recommendations.

• Alignment of agency's EA with Saudi government's national architecture and Digital transformation plans to facilitate whole of government approach.

• Facilitate EA utilization, promotion and capability building in government agencies.

1.4 Features of NORA

The main features of NORA are:

•  As a guide for EA development, it is written from the government agencies' perspective

• All stages in the EA lifecycle are described in some detail to provide clarity to the government agencies

• Balanced approach in EA development that focuses both on processes and the production of standard artifacts or deliverables.

• Examples and example outputs are provided to aid understanding.

•  Highly customizable to suit the varied requirements of different government agencies.

For more information click on the link below:

Guideline for National Overall Reference Architecture (NORA)