The kind of case we are describing here requires careful design and construction. In many ways, the architects of the business case face problems similar to those of an architect designing a building; the same kind of care and deliberation go into both processes. The design and detailed planning of a building must take into account the desires and the resources of the customers, the setting for construction, the nature of the land and materials, the climate, and the skills of the builders. Similarly, the architects of the business case must take into account the desires and resources of the decision and policy makers who must pay for the integration initiative, as well as the political climate, the organizational landscape, and their own needs, materials, and resources.

The idea of architectural design can also be used to describe some of the components of business case development and the design of information integration initiatives. For example, justice information systems integration can require architects of public policy, architects of data networks, architects of new business processes and procedures, architects of new coalitions and collaborations, architects of public opinion, and even architects of new mechanisms for conflict resolution. In all of these areas, the architect brings training, expertise, and experience to bear on the complex design task. It is a task that requires creativity, innovation, and attention to details and practical requirements.

The architectural metaphor incorporates other useful ideas. Good architecture provides the potential for renovation, expansion, and ongoing development. It depends on the quality and adequacy of the "foundation" or physical infrastructure. Architectural design is, after all, something you have to "live with." We use this architectural metaphor as a way of describing the various concepts, methods, and tools used in building a business case.