Case Summary

The Architecture and Infrastructure Committee (AIC) developed an interagency collaborative working group with the purpose of updating the Federal Enterprise Architecture Data Reference Model. With 124 participants from 30 federal agencies, the group worked to create a data model with more streamlined information exchange processes.

Business Challenge

The Architecture and Infrastructure Committee (AIC) wanted to streamline the information exchange processes of the Federal Enterprise Architecture Data Reference Model (DRM) which is a blueprint for the enablement of national information sharing.

Approach Taken

AIC in conjunction with the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB), Federal Enterprise Architecture Program Management Office (FEAPMO) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), established an interagency collaborative working group to update DRM and its associated implementation guidelines. This DRM Interagency Team developed a members-only secure online workspace with 124 participants from 30 agencies.

Results Achieved

In 180 days the interagency working group created the Federal Enterprise Architecture Data Reference Model v2.0, which successfully improved upon the initial DRM framework. The collaborative work environment displayed exemplary knowledge management practices, allowing members to share, deliberate, and transparently document work processes, including access to over 300 meeting notes, online discussions, drafts, and related resources. Additional collaborative organizing mechanisms included a public on-line forum to quickly post working-level documents for public viewing, invite public comment and seek input from state and local stakeholders, and a face-to-face public forums with 543 participants.

Lessons Learned

With these organizing constructs, the DRM Team built trust and shared understanding, while simultaneously remaining open to a larger community of expertise and perspectives surrounding the DRM. The DRM Interagency Team's open collaborative process to construct the model now serves as a best practice for future intergovernmental efforts.