The software runs the practice. We help you build it.
Three services from HighGrain's architects, designed to be used in sequence: consulting to set the practice up on AMBIT, a retainer to protect it, and hiring and training to make it permanently self-sufficient. Every engagement runs on the AMBIT Platform, included at no extra cost.
Three services. One practice.
Each is calibrated to where your practice is today — and designed to make the next one easier.
Practice Consulting
We set the practice up with you on the AMBIT Platform: governance design, the three Alignment Processes, the artefact set and a Stage 2 practice.
Active-Passive Retainer
Your architects run the practice on the platform. We stay fully briefed through it — artefacts, forums, Decision Log — and step in immediately when an architect leaves or demand surges.
EA Hiring and Training
When you are ready for permanent capability, we find, vet and onboard architects — and train your existing team in the method.
Structured for your starting point.
Whether you are starting from nothing, rescuing a stalled practice or protecting a working one. Every model includes the practice continuity guarantee.
Foundation
For organisations with a weak or non-existent practice. Waves 1–3.
- HighGrain lead architect, 2–3 days a week
- Initiative Alignment designed and launched
- Governance forums established and running
- All six artefact types templated and in use
- Stage 1 to Stage 2
Retainer
Your team runs the practice; we provide continuity cover.
- Monthly practice health check
- Read access to your platform workspace and Decision Log
- Immediate activation on departure or disruption
- Annual AMBIT Practice Review
- Priority surge capacity
Rescue
For a stalled investment or a sudden departure. Stabilise, assess, rebuild.
- Rapid maturity assessment in two weeks
- Full-time HighGrain architect for eight weeks
- Governance cadence back within 30 days
- Architecture debt and artefact audit
- Transition plan to Foundation or Retainer
If your lead architect leaves tomorrow, your governance meetings still run next week. We fill the gap immediately — not after a three-month hiring process.
Six waves. Progress is never ambiguous.
Every engagement starts with an honest maturity assessment, then follows AMBIT's waves — each with entry criteria, deliverables and a "done when".
Alignment Management
Initiative Alignment and the Governance Forums.
Alignment Mechanics
Templates, repository and Debt Register.
Alignment Matrix
Six artefact types; Technology Alignment launches.
Alignment Meetings
The D-E-A rhythm and the Decision Log.
Alignment Models
Strategic Alignment with leadership.
Alignment Maturity
Annual review and improvement backlog.
When you are ready to build the permanent team.
Every engagement aims to make us unnecessary. When that moment comes, we become your specialist recruiter — vetting not just technical skill but the interpersonal and political judgement that decides whether an architect succeeds in your organisation.
- Hire
EA Lead · Head of Architecture
Senior practitioners who can run a full AMBIT practice and hold executive relationships.
- Hire
Enterprise Architect
Comfortable across Strategic and Technology Alignment, with business and IT alike.
- Hire
Solution Architect
Produces IT Designs and works inside a governed practice.
- Train
AMBIT Practitioner Programme
Structured training across all six domains, artefact production and forum facilitation.
Run your practice on AMBIT. Start with the mandate.
Try the live demo today, or ask about pilot access. Prefer hands-on help? HighGrain can set the practice up with you.