Every functioning SystemA set of Components that are formally related together by a ... Click for more created by humans has an architectural StructureThe stable relationships, linkages and interdependencies tha... Click for more. Simplistically, if the boxes in a Block DiagramA diagram showing in schematic form the general arrangement ... Click for more represent the ComponentsA generic term for the uniquely identifiable elements, build... Click for more, the Architecture is represented by the lines connecting the boxes. Although the Components of a System are often easier to see, studying the underpinning Structure of a complex System is vital as it always has a disproportionate impact on what the System can reliably do.
In Systems ScienceA multi-domain, integrative discipline that brings together ... Click for more, the term Architecture formally refers to a holistic conceptual model that details how the many Components of a System are linked together by the underpinning Structure. The purpose of this conceptual model is to make explicit, and support collective reasoning about, how all the physical, informational, operational, and transactional Components function together and/or where inefficiencies and fragilities exist.
If the underpinning Architecture is well aligned with the current and/or emerging purposes of a System, the Components will function effectively together and the System will exhibit ScalabilityAn architectural characteristic that takes the future scale ... Click for more and ExtensibilityAn architectural characteristic that takes the future extens... Click for more. Where the Architecture is misaligned with current or future needs, technology integration becomes increasingly costly, investments may be stranded, and full benefits realisation faces increasing risk.
Given the complexity involved, the application of Systems ArchitectureA formal element of Systems Engineering, which enables objec... Click for more disciplines to support Power SystemA highly complex cyber-physical and transactional System tha... Click for more transformation can help avoid perpetuation of existing, or the unintended creation of new, Architectural IssuesFollowing are seven important structural issues that System ... Click for more that will have an enduring impact on the System SecurityThe ability to continue operating the Power System within de... Click for more, ReliabilityThe degree to which electric service that meets applicable u... Click for more and Economic Efficiency.
NOTE: It is important to recognise that different uses of the term Architecture can create confusion with stakeholders. Refer to Digital ArchitectureInfrastructure and Subsystems that provide for all informati... Click for more ≠ Power System ArchitectureAn integrated set of disciplines that support the structural... Click for more for a helpful illustration of some similarities and differences of usage.