Architecture ServiceNow the Right Way: Introducing the BRY Framework for Scalable, Modular Solutions

[BillMartin]

Post Content:

As ServiceNow architects and developers, we often rush to deliver features before stepping back to assess long-term impact. After years of building and supporting enterprise-grade implementations, I saw the need for a design-driven, modular approach that prioritizes sustainability, governance, and business alignment.

That led to the creation of the Build It The Right Way (BRY) Framework.

What Is the BRY Framework?

The BRY Framework is a structured architectural methodology for building modular, scalable, and governable ServiceNow solutions. It’s made for enterprise teams that want to shift from reactive delivery to strategic platform design.

At the heart of the framework are Solution Units—modular, outcome-driven service components aligned to business capabilities and governed across the full lifecycle.

Why This Framework Matters

• It bridges the gap between solution design and platform governance

• It prevents technical debt by promoting reusable architectural patterns

• It aligns delivery with enterprise architecture principles and service maturity

• It enables teams to design with intent and scale with confidence

 

Key Elements of the BRY Framework

1. Solution Units
Modular building blocks, aligned to business services and independently governed. These are designed with clear ownership, scope boundaries, and lifecycle considerations.

2. Eight Architectural Pillars
The foundation for every design decision. These include:

• Modularity and Reuse

• Governance and Compliance

• Scalability and Performance

• Integration Strategy

• Security and Identity

• Observability and Monitoring

• Data Design and Reporting

• Service Alignment and Value Realization

3. Pattern Catalog
Inspired by Microsoft’s Cloud Design Patterns, the BRY Pattern Catalog includes reusable ServiceNow Design Patterns—from API orchestration to request lifecycle strategies, aligned to the platform's unique architecture.

4. Governance-First Development
We integrate architecture reviews, guardrails, and operational readiness into the development workflow. This ensures delivery aligns with long-term service strategy.

Who Is This For?

• Architects designing platform-wide capabilities

• Developers aiming to improve quality and maintainability

• Product owners wanting consistency across teams

• ServiceNow COEs looking to elevate platform governance

 

How You Can Use It

The BRY Framework is already being used to design solutions for SAM, CMDB lifecycle, IRM controls, and request fulfillment. It’s extensible, practical, and meant to evolve with your organization.

If you're interested in using the framework, exploring patterns, or contributing ideas, I'm opening it up to the community for feedback and collaboration.

Let’s build it the right way together.

Learn More and See It in Action

Visit the official site to explore the BRY Framework, pattern catalog, and upcoming templates:

https://architecture.buildittherightway.com

Watch the full overview on YouTube and see real design scenarios broken down:

TechTalk with Bill - BRY Framework Explained 

[SD_Chandan · Accepted solution]

Hi @BillMartin ,

Informative video,Great Explanation... !

[BillMartin · Accepted solution]

Hi @SD_Chandan ,

Thank you and I appreciate the kind words!
Glad you found the video informative. There’s more to come as I continue sharing practical architecture strategies using the BRY Framework.

Best regards,
Bill

[SD_Chandan · Accepted solution]

Hi @BillMartin ,

Informative video,Great Explanation... !

[BillMartin · Accepted solution]

Hi @SD_Chandan ,

Thank you and I appreciate the kind words!
Glad you found the video informative. There’s more to come as I continue sharing practical architecture strategies using the BRY Framework.

Best regards,
Bill

[rajumunta · Accepted solution]

Kudos for bringing this information onto this space.

[BillMartin]

Grateful for the recognition, I’m glad this information adds value!