An Enterprise Architecture

is described by the following:
The Enterprise Architecture (EA) is derived from business driven requirements; it is proactive and strategic.

Without Architecture	With Enterprise Architecture
Lack of alignment with business drivers and processes	Alignment with business drivers and processes
Redundant data and processes	Enterprise data source
Competing technology debates	Technology standards, configurations and buy lists
Technology integration complexity is high	Approved technologies meet architectural integration specifications
Total cost of ownership is not considered when technology is introduced	Fewer configurations and required skill sets lowers support costs
Poorly leveraged technology investment	Current and future technology investments maximized
Staff trained in a wide range of technologies	Core competencies in standard technologies.

EA - Enterprise Architecture
The EA mandates the alignment of information technology with line of business goals. It "engineers out" everything that inhibits change and "engineers in" a high tolerance for the unanticipated. Organizations that have embraced business driven architectures have a technology plan and blueprint to guide their directions, choices, and investments. They have a framework that allows them to respond to business and IT trends. http://www.ewita.com/dmcafee