TOGAF 9.0 (The Open Group Architecture Framework) Certification Guidance Suggestions Q&A

TOGAF 9.0 (The Open Group Architecture Framework) Certification Guidance Suggestions Q&A

What are the general guidance for getting TOGAF 9.1 Certification?

Certification Material    :

I would highly recommend that you stick to the official “TOGAF Self Study Pack”.

1. TOGAF 9 Certification Program (This should be enough for Certification)
2. TOGAF Version 9.1 Specification

Preparation Time            :

1. Self Study 5 Hrs a week : 2-3 months
2. Training : 7 to 10 days

These estimates are entirely based on your previous experience in TOGAF, your capability to grasp things and how well you are able to relate the reading material contexts to each section of the material as well real world scenario. If you are reading TOGAF materials for the first time then there are lots of terminology to grasp and relates to real world scenario.

Cost            :

1. Official TOGAF Reading Material : Approx $50
2. Exam Fee                                     : Approx $200.00 to $300.00

Any suggestion on, How I would I know that my TOGAF certification preparation is done?

At high level, this is what I would recommend:

1. You should be able to understand each question & answers given at the end of each chapter and practice test at the end of the material. Just answering, wouldn’t help much
2. While going through the questions at the end of the Study Guide, you should be able to identify, relate and digest the overall context.
3. You should get a feel, when your preparation is enough to crack the exam. In doubt, over- prepare because, I would think, one is doing this certification to use in real life not for the sake of certification.

I went through the material diligently at least three times. The first time I read the material, it didn’t make much sense  because there were lots of terminology, which I needed to understand TOGAF way. Also, because of the cross reference of each section to other sections, it didn’t make much sense when you are going through the first few chapters.

So, Once you complete the material and start over again each chapter, it makes much sense and you know where to look for, in case you come across a terminology or concept.

How should I study Self Study Guide?

1. Sequential: Study the material in the given sequence for the first time.
2. Initially it might sound boring, so have patient
3. Don’t look into the answers at the beginning, instead try to have the level of confidence to a level where you are sure that your answer is right.
4. Try to use the study material to your day to day work activity as an architect. At least you can relate to your current architecture to the given material and understand the basic concept.
5. If you are not interested in Enterprise Architecture and doing this for job purpose then it might sound boring
6. Take advantage of the given reference cards by putting it to a place where you could browse it quickly & repeatedly.

Is there any value in Training?

It entirely depends on Training Institute, you and your financial conditions. Training will definitely boost up your initial learning curve and guide you through preparation material. It will also give you a perspective of Enterprise Architecture and how to use it. Enterprise Architecture subject is so vast and vague that more you study more you know and each study gives you a fresh perspective or better understanding of Enterprise Architecture. It is an Art but not the Science.

So, in the long run whether you have taken training or not, you will need to refer to TOGAF Specification, unless you are a super genius.

Is there a value of TOGAF Certification?

In my opinion, of course, yes.

TOGAF prescribes a methodology for doing architecture work just like any other framework like Zachman Framework, TOGAF, Federal Enterprise Architecture (FEA), Gartner Enterprise Architecture, etc. At least the best take away from TOGAF Certification is that you will have tools and utility to handle many situation and scenario in your day to day architecture work. There is still a debate on which Architecture Framework is best, but recently, I have seen TOGAF taking lot of traction in the industry. Worth mentioning that it adds value to your CV.

How different do you feel after TOGAF Certification?

You definitely feel more confident. You have more idea about things going on in Architecture world and solving Architecture Problems. Basically, most of the time, you know where to look for. I have never seen a perfect Enterprise Architecture practice in an  Organization. So, you will have your own perspective, suggestion on existing Architecture practice, though you are not involved. Basically, you will know, how to approach an Enterprise Architecture problem?

Any final thoughts on TOGAF Certification probability?

What are the probabilities that you have cracked one exam in your life. Do the same thing here. Refer to the official book available here - TOGAF 9 Certification Program.