A Comparison of DoDAF, TOGAF, and FEAF: Architectural Frameworks for Effective Systems Design

Architectural frameworks play a vital role in guiding the design, implementation, and management of complex systems. This paper provides a comprehensive comparison of three prominent frameworks: DoDAF (Department of Defense Architecture Framework), TOGAF (The Open Group Architecture Framework), and FEAF (Federal Enterprise Architecture Framework). Each framework has its unique focus and purpose, with the aim of facilitating effective architecture development and governance. DoDAF primarily caters to defense systems within the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), offering operational, system, and technical viewpoints. TOGAF, on the other hand, provides a holistic approach applicable to enterprises across industries, addressing business, data, application, and technology architecture domains. FEAF focuses on enterprise architecture within the US federal government, encompassing business, performance, service, data, and technical reference models. This paper examines and compares these frameworks based on aspects such as scope, development organization, architecture domains, framework structure, notable versions, certification programs, and popularity. The findings help practitioners and organizations understand the unique characteristics and suitability of each framework for effective system design, ultimately allowing informed decision-making regarding framework selection and implementation.