| Interoperability |
The ability of two or more systems or components to exchange information and to use the information that has been exchanged. |
| Architecture |
Architecture describes the structure, relationships, and guiding principles of systems, defining how components interact to deliver intended outcomes. In a cross-border context, it provides a shared conceptual model that enables independent stakeholders to align and interoperate without requiring uniform implementation. |
| Reference architecture |
A reference architecture is a reusable, non-prescriptive framework that provides guidance, patterns, and building blocks for designing interoperable systems. In a cross-border setting, it serves as a shared point of reference that supports alignment across jurisdictions while preserving local autonomy and enabling compatible implementations. |
| Architecture principle |
A architecture principles are specific guidelines that govern the development, maintenance, and use of the architecture. They are actionable directives for IT and architecture work. source: TOGAF |
| Service |
A service is the externally visible behavior of the providing system, from the perspective of entity (person, organisation, system) that use that service. The value offered to the user of the service provides the motivation for the existence of the service. For the users of the service, only this exposed behavior and value are relevant. source: ArchiMate 3.2 Specification |
| Building block |
An architecture building block is defined as a constituent of the architecture model that describes a single aspect of the overall architecture. ABBs can represent various elements, including: business processes, information systems, or technology infrastructure. source: TOGAF |
| Architecture decision record |
A significant architectural decision, including its context, the decision made, and the consequences. |
| Trust framework |
A trust framework is a set of agreements, rules, and mechanisms that define how organisations establish and maintain trust when exchanging data. It specifies roles, responsibilities, and conditions for participation, including identity verification, authentication, authorization, and compliance with legal and security requirements. |