As in my previous posts, I'm trying to share with you some of the new innovations Microsoft is working on in the software architecture space. This time, I'd like to introfuce you all to "Motion"....
Motion is a methodology developed by Microsoft for business architecture, probably the name will change in the future to something a bit less cool :-) However, if you try to look for Motion in the search engines, you'll find everything but Microsoft's methodology, because Motion is a word used in many terms.
So what is so interesting about Motion?
The whole methodology provides a framework for organizing, measuring and evaluating of business capabilities. By doing so, we can map and link these capabilities into services or technologies, moving forward to the area we all live in - service oriented architecture or technology/solution architecture. The whole methodology is about business and is based on interviews delivered with the CxOs of the target organization.
So what is a capability? Why is it so unique?
- A capability is usually answering the question of the "what" is done or should be done by the business instead of the "how" it is done which is more like the traditional process (not capability) oriented methodologies.
- For example, a capability is more like: deliver a product, create purchase order, generate invoice or pay employee.
- Capabilities are NOT phone customer, send email, enter order online or fax supplier - These are more process related and focus on the "how" which makes them short-lasting.
- Processes change over time, while capabilities remain stable.
More juicy details about Motion
- The whole process of Motion can be done by 6-8 weeks max!!!
- There is a Motion-Lite methodology which can be delivered in two days for a subset of the business.
- The methodology comes with some tools, questionnaires, heat maps and lots of guidance. However, most of the information available is Microsoft internal for the meantime.
- The legend says that Motion was invented by Microsoft Consulting Services in order to prove the value of getting into the business solutions (CRM, ERP etc.) to Bill Gates. This was one of the reasons why Microsoft bought GreatPlains in the past and the rest is history.
So where can I learn more about Motion?
- A recent article in Globes about SOA and BPM (in Hebrew) which includes extensive parts on Motion. Actually, we have so much to tell about SOA and our solutions and projects in this area, but somehow the editor who interviewed me was very interested to understand about Motion which is some other aspect to our SOA story. You can read the article to understand Motion in the context of SOA.
- As the Tech-Ed Israel 2006 Architecture track leader, I had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Arvindra Sehmi for a presentation on Motion. The presentation got some great feedbacks especially from business and IT veterans who are in the stage to see the value from the methodology.
- Motion Heat Maps Paper - Some information about the Heat Maps and how their structure and colors provide a map for decision makers as to where to drive their business and where to invest.
- CH Robinson Case Study, "By mapping the capabilities of its $4.3 billion multi-modal logistics company with Motion, CH Robinson plans to realize a 20% reduction in the capital expenditure in one area".
Enjoy...