A data object is defined as a coherent, self-contained piece of information suitable for automated processing.

An application function operates on a data object.

A data object may be communicated via interactions and used or produced by application services.

The name of a data object should preferably be a noun. It should be a useful, self-contained piece of information with a clear meaning to the business, not just to the application level.

Category: Application Layer and Passive structure aspect

Examples: Customer File Data, Insurance Policy Data, Insurance Request Data, Client Database.

Typical Relationships:

  • Access - application component, application function, application interaction, application service
  • Realisation - business object, artifact
  • Used by - application service

Source: Archimate 2.1, Chapter 4 Application Layer