Architectural FORGE

The Applied Practice of the GEAR System

Architecture as Execution

FORGE is the "Execution Engine" that activates the GEAR system. It provides a repeatable, 5-stage cycle that moves the architect from observation to the "Explosion" of operational reality.

Mission outcomes delivered through integrated digital capabilities Mission Solutions & Capabilities Architectural FORGE: The active process that connects and aligns all transformation pillars Architectural FORGE Find Find: Identify gaps, silos, and opportunities across domains • Observe Observe: Gather data and validate current state reality • Reconcile Reconcile: Align strategic intent with operational execution • Ground Ground: Root transformation in physical and digital reality • Enhance Enhance: Scale and optimize capabilities for the future Cloud, DevOps, emerging compute, and decentralized platforms enabling portable execution everywhere Ubiquitous Computing Edge Computing enables data processing and decision-making closer to where data is generated to support low-latency, resilient, and mission-critical operations. Edge Computing Artificial Intelligence enables systems to learn, reason, and assist decision-making through data-driven models embedded across digital and operational workflows. Artificial Intelligence Cybersecurity protects systems, data, and missions through Zero Trust principles, resilience, and continuous risk management across all domains. Cyber Security Data Management governs how data is collected, integrated, secured, and used to drive insights and decisions across the enterprise. Data Management Advanced Communications provides secure, resilient connectivity enabling data, systems, and people to operate as an integrated whole. Advanced Comms Strategic Domain Organizational Domain Process Domain Digital Domain Physical Domain People People: Roles, Skills, and Cultural readiness Process Process: Workflows and Organizational metabolism Policy Policy: Rules, Governance, and Constraints Technology Technology: Digital platforms and Data models

  • 1. Find

    Map the Landscape. Clearly identify components, stakeholders, and pain points across the O-DXA domains. Surface the "Shadow IT" and informal processes.

  • 2. Observe

    Understand Usage. Analyze how elements are actually used and their interdependencies. Map the "Nervous System" of the enterprise.

  • 3. Reconcile

    Align Intent. Unify disparate teams and silos to close the gap between executive strategy and operational reality. Define shared architectural constraints.

  • 4. Ground

    Root in Reality. Capitalize on current infrastructure and processes. Root transformation in existing strengths to avoid the "Rip and Replace" fallacy.

  • 5. Enhance

    The Architect's Explosion. Augment capabilities with strategic technology, process improvements, and partnerships. Move from interpretation to operational reality.

GEAR Integration

The FORGE methodology is the active engine that drives the GEAR Transformation Operating System.

O-DXA Domains

FORGE is used to navigate and update the Strategic, Organizational, Process, Digital, and Physical domains, ensuring they remain aligned during change.

Execution Pillars

Technical capabilities like AI, Cyber, and Data are identified during Find/Observe and systematically integrated during the Enhance stage.

Dimensions Play

FORGE manages the friction between People, Process, Policy, and Technology, reconciling disparate vectors into a unified architectural direction.

The Continuous Loop

Transformation is not a destination but a cycle. The FORGE loop repeats as the enterprise evolves, ensuring that the structural model stays in lockstep with the mission and the terrain.

Next Steps on Your Transformation Journey

Use the Six Pillars as a common language between business leaders, architects, and operators. From here you can dive into pillar pages, listen to interviews, or explore ODXA in depth.

The Six Pillars

Explore the foundational technical capabilities that enable digital transformation, from AI to advanced communications.

Execution Pillars Overview

The ODXA Domains

Navigate the structural layers of the enterprise to align strategy, people, processes, and technology.

Map Domain Structure

Transformation Dimensions

Understand how to balance the critical dimensions of People, Process, Policy, and Technology in every initiative.

Understand Dimensions

FORGE Methodology

Apply our active methodology to Find, Observe, Reconcile, Ground, and Enhance your transformation efforts.

Apply the Practice

Continue Your Journey

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