> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://specs.govstack.global/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://specs.govstack.global/implementation-playbook/0.9.0/govstack-implementation-playbook/adopt-govstack/reference-architecture.md).

# Reference architecture

Reference architecture is the blueprint used to put the pieces of the organizational & systems puzzle together. Digital teams use reference architecture to promote the reuse of common assets and identify capability gaps. It: 

* Defines a common language for consistent communication within the organization 
* Outlines all capabilities needed to achieve the best outcome 
* Provides the ability of systems or software to exchange and make use of information  
* Establishes standard systems, and a common way to exchange information

<figure><img src="/files/z6XyGvyZlqBUjDhxxskw" alt=""><figcaption><p>Example: Enterprise Architecture from Abu Dabhi, Finalist of GovStack WSIS Special Prize 2023</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="/files/ifQq1fv46MyxeFINyqAH" alt=""><figcaption><p>Government Ecosystem Reference Architecture (GERA)</p></figcaption></figure>

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Activities" %}

* Develop the systems/software/platform catalog to identify reusable software components/Building Blocks that can support the digitization of services.
* Identify additional Building Blocks/ reusable software components that are critical in building a national stack that can facilitate the development of prioritized citizen-centric digital services.&#x20;
* Define the approach to adding new/updated Building Blocks within the national stack, either through tendering, developing indigenously, or re-using existing Building Blocks. [GovExchange ](https://exchange.dial.global/)provides a catalog of digital public goods that can be used as a reference.

**Examples of Reference Architectures:**

* In Australia, their [reference architecture document](https://www.architecture.dta.gov.au/sp_aga2?id=aga2_how_to_use) provides digital teams the guidance they need to align current and emerging tech into a sound orchestration of solutions to enable digital government service design and delivery

<figure><img src="/files/bnPwCYoYz6RtYwXDXb4x" alt=""><figcaption><p>Source: Australian <a href="https://architecture.digital.gov.au/sites/default/files/2023-07/22-0109%20Australian%20Government%20Architecture_v11.pdf">Reference Architecture</a></p></figcaption></figure>

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/NSBtgW09mHo>" %}
Australian Whole of Government Architecture &#x20;
{% endembed %}

* [GovStack Architecture and non-functional requirements](https://govstack.gitbook.io/specification/architecture-and-nonfunctional-requirements)
* [GovStack Ecosystem Reference Architecture and Business Guide for Public Digital Platforms](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Qa31kAy_Kz9MsphXunS0UqRJpoQ2i8HV/edit?usp=sharing\&ouid=107531587157017296326\&rtpof=true\&sd=true),  [The Open Group Standard](https://www.opengroup.org/)
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Responsabilities" %}
Who does what:

* Chief government architects - Coordinate the work around the reference architecture&#x20;
* [Solutions architects](https://app.gitbook.com/o/pxmRWOPoaU8fUAbbcrus/s/4D3oEcPGpYoKnwkQmCzJ/~/changes/389/govstack-implementation-playbook/sample-digital-team-composition/govstack-user-profiles-taxonomy#solution-architect) from government entities - Actively participate in the co-design of the document, the reference architecture working group, and the training program&#x20;
* [Service designers](https://specs.govstack.global/workflow/workflow-development/) - Actively participate in co-design sessions, the reference architecture working groups, and the training program&#x20;
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Deliverables" %}

* Government Enterprise Architecture
* Implementation guidelines
* e-learning courses for stakeholders (public servants and ICT service providers)
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}


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