Service-oriented architecture articles and products

A service-oriented architecture is essentially a collection of connected services. Web Services essentially use XML to create a robust connection. A service is the endpoint of a connection. Also, a service is a well-defined, self-contained function that does not depend on the context or state of other services.

In a service-oriented architecture, the distinction between internal and external services will become less apparent. This will create a dynamic environment where software vendors will compete on features or innovations that are independent of the connections. This could include such things as user interfaces, automated software agents, rule-based systems, or user profiles that allow for highly customized interactions.

The use of these architectures is not limited to large organizations. In fact, this represents an opportunity for small and medium-sized organizations. Many services will be provided on some type of fee-for-use basis, which will make them economical for organizations of most any size. Other services might be provided at no cost.

Of course, organizations will only buy vendor-provided products and services if the software is of sufficient quality. Sometimes the reason why an organization develops its own software is that it experienced poor quality, vendor-provided software. Vendors planning to compete in this environment will need to be prepared to provide very high quality software and a high level of customer service. Being able to treat services as commodities will allow an organization to switch services easily if it perceives either that the quality of software is poor or that they are not receiving sufficient support on any software-related issues.

A common initialism used for service-oriented architectures is SOA.

Articles

Products

A listing of  products that can be used in a service-oriented architecture is available on this site. Links to the product Web sites are also provided. Click here for products for service-oriented architectures.

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Various architectures can use many of the following products described on this site. Be sure to check them out.