Enterprise architecture approach in solution design : case M-Files system design and implementation
Oranne, Laura (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025100425559
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025100425559
Tiivistelmä
This master's thesis explores the integration of Enterprise Architecture (EA) frameworks into the solution architecture practices during M-Files system implementations. It focuses on the role of M-Files Solution Architects by investigating the use and outcomes of EA practices as part of an M-Files implementation project from an IT vendor perspective.
The study field of Information Management at TAMK UAS combines knowledge of IT Architecture, Information management and Business knowledge, with the focus of studies within the Architecture Framework combining a holistic understanding of business and technology needs when designing or improving businesses. This thesis aims to focus on the Solution Architect role from a broader perspective and to discover possibilities to improve capabilities of M-Files Solution Architects to level-up their potential of working as holistic professionals in different customer environments.
To support the M-Files company strategy it is essential to find ways to understand and keep up with changes in the global economy, with changes in the workculture and in finding the best solutions to support these changes from a systemic level. This master's thesis explores the integration of Enterprise Architecture (EA) frameworks into the solution architecture practices during M-Files implementations through one case example. The case outcomes are reflected in the research of the current state of implementation work of M-Files Solution Architects and introduces EA methodologies to improve the design and adaptability of solutions tailored for diverse customer environments.
The thesis concludes with an evaluation of the case study outcomes and interviews with M-Files architects, including a scenario rehearsal using LEAN® DMAIC methodology. This evaluation validates the benefits of incorporating EA frameworks in solution design by highlighting detailed enhancements found through a holistic understanding of the target environment leading to possibilities of cost savings, automated processes and further development. The thesis underlines the importance of embedding EA framework ideology in the Solution Architect role to align system design with strategic business objectives of the target environment of customers.
The study field of Information Management at TAMK UAS combines knowledge of IT Architecture, Information management and Business knowledge, with the focus of studies within the Architecture Framework combining a holistic understanding of business and technology needs when designing or improving businesses. This thesis aims to focus on the Solution Architect role from a broader perspective and to discover possibilities to improve capabilities of M-Files Solution Architects to level-up their potential of working as holistic professionals in different customer environments.
To support the M-Files company strategy it is essential to find ways to understand and keep up with changes in the global economy, with changes in the workculture and in finding the best solutions to support these changes from a systemic level. This master's thesis explores the integration of Enterprise Architecture (EA) frameworks into the solution architecture practices during M-Files implementations through one case example. The case outcomes are reflected in the research of the current state of implementation work of M-Files Solution Architects and introduces EA methodologies to improve the design and adaptability of solutions tailored for diverse customer environments.
The thesis concludes with an evaluation of the case study outcomes and interviews with M-Files architects, including a scenario rehearsal using LEAN® DMAIC methodology. This evaluation validates the benefits of incorporating EA frameworks in solution design by highlighting detailed enhancements found through a holistic understanding of the target environment leading to possibilities of cost savings, automated processes and further development. The thesis underlines the importance of embedding EA framework ideology in the Solution Architect role to align system design with strategic business objectives of the target environment of customers.