Reference Model

A reference model offers a shared classification scheme—capabilities, services, data subjects, or technologies—for comparing and aligning architectures. Government and industry reference models promote interoperability and reporting consistency. Organizations map internal assets to reference models for gap and overlap analysis.

In Practice

Larkinized LLC uses reference models to accelerate heatmaps and compliance mapping without reinventing taxonomies. Internal models should document mappings to external reference models for grant and regulatory submissions. Reference models inform but do not replace organization-specific design decisions.

Example

An agency maps application interfaces to the Federal Data Reference Model to identify shared data assets across programs.