The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF), as described by the Open Group, is a proven Enterprise Architecture methodology and framework that companies across the world use to improve their business efficiency. The framework is useful in organizing the development process by following a systematic approach so as to meet goals like meeting deadlines, minimizing errors, maintaining the budget, and achieving quality results by aligning IT with business units. It is a reliable Enterprise Architecture Standard that many companies follow to ensure that their EAs maintain consistent standards, methods, and communication.
The latest version of TOGAF is the TOGAF Standard Version 9.2 which includes important updates to the Business Architecture and the Content Metamodel. It offers better guidance, minimized errors, and improved document structure compared to TOGAF version 9.1. However, the new version retains major features like the modular structure, content framework, extended guidance, and architectural styles.
This article takes you through TOGAF certifications and the reasons why professionals should add it to their array of skills if you want to become an enterprise architect.
TOGAF Certifications
These are the certifications offered if you are willing to learn TOGAF:
- TOGAF Standard Version 9.2
- TOGAF Business Architecture
- Integrating Risk and Security
- TOGAF Essentials 2018 (applicable for professionals certified in earlier TOGAF version 9.0 and 9.1)
The TOGAF Standard Version 9.2 has two certification levels, namely:
TOGAF 9 Foundation
Candidates qualifying for this certification have proven knowledge of TOGAF terminology, fundamental concepts, and the core concepts of Enterprise Architecture and TOGAF. The credential tests whether you have a clear understanding of the ADM cycle and its key deliverables, the concept of Enterprise Continuum, views and viewpoints, the TOGAF reference models, and more.
The associated exam is TOGAF 9 Part 1 which consists of 40 multiple choice questions and the duration is 60 minutes. There are no prerequisites to take the exam.
TOGAF 9 Certified
This certification verifies that the individual does not only have the knowledge of the TOGAF 9 Foundation but is also capable of analyzing and applying it. Focusing more on the application, this credential tests whether you can apply the ADM phases in the development of an Enterprise Architecture, the TOGAF architecture content framework, stakeholder management technique, TOGAF content metamodel, and more.
The associated exam is TOGAF 9 Part 2 which consists of 8 multiple choices scenario-based exam and the duration is 90 minutes. One needs to be TOGAF 9 Foundation certified to be eligible for this exam.
Benefits of Getting TOGAF Certified
Here are some of the compelling reasons to grow your career by getting TOGAF certified.
Get to work for top companies
Fujitsu, Huawei, IBM, Intel, DXC Technology, Oracle, and Philips are platinum members of the Open Group. Such companies, along with many others, use this credential to certify a common body of core knowledge about the framework and methodology. By getting TOGAF certified, you can demonstrate your skills in Enterprise Architecture and become eligible for job opportunities offered by these companies.
Become a well-versed Enterprise Architect
By getting TOGAF certified, you will join the group of 70,000 highly skilled Enterprise Architects across the world who have been successful in demonstrating their knowledge of the framework. It will enhance your credibility and prove your commitment to enterprise architecture as a discipline. What’s more! The Open Group also offers open badges that verify your credentials digitally and you can share them on professional networking sites like LinkedIn and Twitter.
Improves your earning potential
If you are an IT Enterprise Architect and become TOGAF certified, you would be paving your way to higher paychecks. Such professionals earn an average salary of $135,000 in the US because of this credential. For the role of Enterprise Architecture Director, this number can go as high as $159,000. Amazon, UnitedHealth Group, Cognizant Technology Solutions, and IBM are some of the companies that pay comparatively higher salaries to TOGAF certified enterprise architects.
TOGAF is in demand
If you are a software engineer willing to switch into enterprise architecture, then getting TOGAF certified is the right career move. The certification is also popular among security, enterprise, data, system, and application architects. The Harvey Nash/KPMG CIO Survey found enterprise architecture to be the fastest-growing in-demand skills in technology. Moreover, a lack of expertise in TOGAF is one of the major hindrances towards EA success.
Make complicated stuff simple
Organizations today need trained professionals who can link the business goals and processes to the IT strategy and help translate between business needs and technological innovation. It is the TOGAF certification that makes enterprise architects accomplish these complex tasks. As companies continue to become increasingly reliant on data, the demand for enterprise architects will continue to grow.
Bottom Line
You should now be convinced about getting TOGAF certified. The fact that TOGAF is used by around 80% of Global 50 companies and 60% of Fortune 500 companies would further lure you. But what about the preparation? Now professionals usually prefer taking up online TOGAF certification courses and getting trained from industry experts. Online TOGAF training easily fits into one’s busy schedule and they don’t have to worry about collecting exam materials or putting any extra efforts. So, look for a reliable TOGAF training provider and start your journey.
