Book excerpt: An up-to-date and comprehensive overview of information and database systems design and implementation. The book provides an accessible presentation and explanation of technical architecture for systems complying with TOGAF standards, the accepted international framework. Covering nearly the full spectrum of architectural concern, the authors also illustrate and concretize the notion of traceability from business goals, strategy through to technical architecture, providing the reader with a holistic and commanding view. The work has two mutually supportive foci. First, information technology technical architecture, the in-depth, illustrative and contemporary treatment of which comprises the core and majority of the book; and secondly, a strategic and business context.