open architecture
Expandable system framework
Open architecture refers to systems designed so their specifications are publicly available, allowing components from different manufacturers to work together.
The term originated in computing—an open architecture computer accepts third-party hardware and software—but extends to any field where interoperability matters: open architecture investment platforms, open architecture in defense systems.
The opposite is a closed or proprietary system.
Combining into a whole
- compatibilityMutual suitability between things
- plug-and-playRequiring no manual configuration
- cross-platformWorks on multiple systems
- APIsSoftware communication protocols
connectivity · standards-based · networked · protocols · interfaces · exchangeable · unified · harmonized
Stated requirements and parameters
- complianceAdhering to requirements
- guidelinesSuggested rules for behavior
- ISOGlobal standards body
- protocolsEstablished codes of conduct
documentation · framework · industry standard · conventions · APIs · blueprint · certification · benchmarking
Made of separable units
- componentsConstituent parts
- scalableAble to increase capacity
- expandableAble to be enlarged
- upgradeableCapable of being improved
extensible · configurable · reconfigurable · building blocks · plug-ins · add-ons · subsystems · modules
Preserved in official records
- disclosedMade previously hidden known
- publishedMade available to readers
- nonproprietaryNot privately owned
- peer-reviewedEvaluated by field experts
integration
Combining into a whole
- compatibilityMutual suitability between things
- plug-and-playRequiring no manual configuration
- cross-platformWorks on multiple systems
APIs · connectivity · standards-based · networked · protocols · interfaces · exchangeable · unified · harmonized · interchangeable
specifications
Stated requirements and parameters
- complianceAdhering to requirements
- guidelinesSuggested rules for behavior
- ISOGlobal standards body
protocols · documentation · framework · industry standard · conventions · APIs · blueprint · certification · benchmarking · norms
modular
Made of separable units
- componentsConstituent parts
- scalableAble to increase capacity
- expandableAble to be enlarged
upgradeable · extensible · configurable · reconfigurable · building blocks · plug-ins · add-ons · subsystems · modules · interchangeable parts
documented
Preserved in official records
- disclosedMade previously hidden known
- publishedMade available to readers
- nonproprietaryNot privately owned
peer-reviewed · auditable · visible · inspectable · community-driven
open architectureproprietary
Legally owned, restricted use
closed system · walled garden · closed · closed ecosystem · sealed system
open, architecture, opens, opened, opening, opener, openers, openness, openly