Subjects vs. Objects – A Top-Down Approach

Abstract

This article demonstrates how to improve the link between the requirements of the business and the capabilities of IT. The fundamental starting point is to define business objects solely from the business point of view, thus establishing the predominance of business requirements when interpreting and using established IT functions.

Starting from business objects, the content of the business - what to do – is to be identified and determined. The general principle is that all the business functions as well as the communication needs should be determined and decided by the people responsible for the business: These are defined as the subjects responsible for determining and processing business activities.

As opposed to that, the IT functions have a supporting role. In particular, the many IT functions which result from various technical needs should be identified and be placed under the sole and entire responsibility of the IT. This way a clear focus of the IT on the defined business needs can be maintained.