An integrated set of documents and diagrams that capture the essence of the structural relationships, linkages and interdependencies that enable the functioning of a complex SystemA set of Components that are formally related together by a ....
The purpose of a Reference Architecture is to provide shared clarity on how the underpinning StructuresThe stable relationships, linkages and interdependencies tha... and relationships of a System are currently configured, including how they may need to change to enable future needs and stakeholder requirements.
The development of a Reference Architecture functions as the first major phase of the Systems ArchitectureA formal element of Systems Engineering, which enables objec... process. The process facilitates a shared understanding across multiple organisations and disciplines of the current and plausible alternative structural arrangements. Necessitating a level of abstraction, it reflects the qualities and intrinsic nature of the system rather than its full detail. This provides a foundational step toward the subsequent Detailed Architecture and Detailed Engineering Design phases.