Licensing Comparison
This page compares the licensing and access models of the Triodian Metamodel and BIZBOK. Both models serve their respective communities effectively, with different approaches suited to different organizational needs.
Overview
| Aspect | Triodian Metamodel | BIZBOK |
|---|---|---|
| License Type | Apache License 2.0 | Membership-based |
| Access Model | Open to all | Business Architecture Guild membership |
| Cost | Free | Membership fee |
| Commercial Use | Permitted, keeping licence notices | Per membership terms |
| Modification | Permitted; changes must be noted | Not permitted |
Triodian Licensing Model
Apache License 2.0
The Triodian Metamodel is released under the Apache License, Version 2.0.
What this means:
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Use and share | Copy, use, and redistribute in any medium or format |
| Modify | Adapt, transform, and build upon the schemas |
| Commercial | Use for commercial purposes, including in proprietary products |
| Patent grant | Contributors grant an express licence to any patents covering their contributions |
| Notices | Keep the licence, copyright, and attribution notices when redistributing |
| Changes | Mark files you have modified |
Benefits of Open Access
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| No cost barrier | Organizations can evaluate and adopt without financial commitment |
| Transparent evolution | All changes visible to the community |
| Community contribution | Anyone can propose improvements |
| Educational use | Freely available for teaching and learning |
| Integration flexibility | Embed in tools and platforms without licensing complexity |
Attribution Requirements
When redistributing the Triodian Metamodel or work based on it, include a copy of the licence and a notice such as:
Based on the Triodian Metamodel (https://github.com/Triodian/Triodian_Metamodel)
Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0
BIZBOK Licensing Model
Membership-Based Access
BIZBOK content is available through Business Architecture Guild membership, which provides:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive content | Full BIZBOK guide and supporting materials |
| Community access | Connection to global practitioner network |
| Certification pathway | Access to CBA® certification program |
| Updates | Regular content updates and revisions |
| Events | Access to Guild events and webinars |
Membership Value
The membership model enables the Guild to:
- Fund ongoing content development
- Support certification program administration
- Maintain community infrastructure
- Organize practitioner events
- Provide member support services
Choosing the Right Model
Both licensing models have merit depending on organizational context:
When Open Source Fits Best
| Scenario | Why Open Source Works |
|---|---|
| Startups and small organizations | No upfront investment required |
| Educational institutions | Free access for students and courses |
| Tool vendors | Easy integration without licensing complexity |
| Open source projects | Compatible with OSS ecosystem |
| Experimentation and evaluation | Try before organizational commitment |
| Global distributed teams | Consistent access across regions |
When Membership Fits Best
| Scenario | Why Membership Works |
|---|---|
| Seeking professional certification | CBA® certification requires membership |
| Valuing community connection | Guild community provides peer support |
| Preferring curated guidance | Guild-reviewed content ensures quality |
| Supporting industry development | Membership funds framework evolution |
| Requiring member support | Direct access to Guild resources |
Using Both Frameworks
Many organizations benefit from both approaches:
- Use Triodian schemas for technical implementation
- Maintain Guild membership for certification and community
- Leverage both resources for comprehensive coverage
This approach provides the best of both worlds: formal schemas for tooling and a professional community for practice development.
Practical Considerations
For Tool Development
| Consideration | Triodian | BIZBOK |
|---|---|---|
| Embedding in products | Permitted with attribution | Requires licensing agreement |
| Schema redistribution | Permitted under Apache 2.0 | Not permitted |
| API development | Use schemas directly | Implement from guidance |
| Documentation inclusion | Attribution required | Membership required |
For Organizational Adoption
| Consideration | Triodian | BIZBOK |
|---|---|---|
| Initial evaluation | Free and immediate | Membership investment |
| Training materials | Can create derivative works | Use Guild materials |
| Internal documentation | Can adapt and customize | Reference with membership |
| External sharing | Share with attribution | Per membership terms |
For Consultants
| Consideration | Triodian | BIZBOK |
|---|---|---|
| Client deliverables | Can include with attribution | Per membership terms |
| Methodology development | Can build upon and commercialize | Use as reference |
| Training delivery | Can create courses | Guild training programs available |
Summary
| Dimension | Triodian | BIZBOK |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy | Open knowledge sharing | Professional community |
| Sustainability | Community contribution | Membership funding |
| Access | Immediate, global | Membership-gated |
| Modification | Encouraged with attribution | Protected |
| Target | Implementation and tooling | Practice and certification |
Both models successfully serve their communities. The choice depends on organizational priorities, budget, and how the framework will be used.
Related Documentation
- Summary Comparison — High-level framework comparison
- What Triodian Adds — Extended capabilities
- Contribution Guidelines — How to contribute to Triodian