Salesforce Operating, Governance, and Architecture Framework (SOGAF): Applying the MIT‑CISR Enterprise Architecture Model

Introduction

SOGAF (Salesforce Operating, Governance and Architecture Framework) applies the MIT‑CISR Enterprise Architecture framework to Salesforce implementations and programs.

The operating model has two dimensions: business process standardization and business process integration . Standardizing processes and related systems means precisely defining how a process should be executed, which improves overall company efficiency and predictability.

Integration of business processes through shared data connects the work of organizational units. This data sharing can enable end‑to‑end transaction processing or provide a unified customer experience, delivering benefits such as higher efficiency, better coordination, increased transparency, and greater agility.

Operating Model Types

SOGAF defines four operating models:

Diversify – different processes and different data

Replicate – same processes, different data

Coordinate – different processes, shared data

Unify – same processes, shared data

The appropriate operating model depends on the level of process standardization and the required degree of data integration. The chosen model drives the technical capabilities needed across the enterprise.

How to Choose an Operating Model

Selection depends on whether business processes are identical and whether data is shared among the business units shown in the decision tree. In practice, companies often sit on a continuum between two of the four models.

About the Contributor

Martin Griffiths is the Director of Business Architecture at Salesforce. With a bilingual French‑English background, he has 30 years of experience in CRM, ERP, and digital transformation, covering business consulting, enterprise architecture, and project delivery. His focus is on guiding complex Salesforce‑based transformations, operating models, and governance using academic frameworks.