Architecture Principles are fundamental statements of intent that guide architecture decision-making. According to the TOGAF standard, they provide a framework of rules and guidelines to ensure that architecture work consistently supports the enterprise's strategic objectives and business goals. By establishing a shared basis for decisions, they create a common understanding among stakeholders on how to govern and control the evolution of the enterprise architecture in pursuit of its strategy. This ensures that all architectural choices are coherent, consistent, and aligned with the desired business outcomes.

A. This describes the benefits or outcomes documented in a Business Case, not the guiding purpose of the principles themselves.

C. While principles reflect culture, their primary function is to actively guide and govern decisions, not merely to describe organizational values.

D. This is the explicit purpose of an Architecture Contract or Statement of Architecture Work, which formalizes an agreement for a specific engagement.

1. The Open Group Standard

TOGAF® Standard

10th Edition (April 2022). Part III: ADM Guidelines & Techniques

Chapter 20

Section 20.2

"What is an Architecture Principle?". This section states that principles "provide a basis for decision-making" and govern the way the enterprise approaches architecture.

2. The Open Group Standard

TOGAF® Standard

10th Edition (April 2022). Part III: ADM Guidelines & Techniques

Chapter 20

Section 20.1

"Introduction". This section clarifies that principles "provide a framework and a set of rules and guidelines" for architecture work

which aligns with the concept of control.

3. The Open Group Standard

TOGAF® Standard

10th Edition (April 2022). Part IV: Architecture Content Framework

Chapter 32

Section 32.2.4

"Architecture Contract". This section defines the Architecture Contract as the agreement between development partners and sponsors

distinguishing its purpose from that of principles.