Service Oriented Architecture Concepts Research Articles

Stakeholder Identification and Analysis for Service Lifecycle Management

The convergence of information technology and diverse business requirements is making the organization information systems more complex. Quickly integrating existing systems and developing new applications to serve the requirement of flexible business environments have become a key factor for organizations to gain a competitive edge. To meet this challenge, the concept of Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) has been proposed and widely lauded as an innovative business oriented solution. To better utilize SOA's advantages, several research problems should be attached much importance among which service lifecycle management is a notable one, which is one of the critical mechanisms leading to higher service quality. A large number of service lifecycle models have been proposed in the literature while few of them clearly indicate the integration of the lifecycle processes with stakeholders. In this research, a conceptual stakeholder identification and analysis framework is proposed by which stakeholders are analyzed within different service lifecycle stages. It is believed that this method can offer the researchers in the community further insight into service lifecycle management from the stakeholder's perspective.

A Method of Implementation for Integrated Aeronautical Data Management Network Using SWIM Architecture

Ongoing SWIM(System Wide Information Management) with the United States and European countries as the center is a part of the ASBU(Aviation System Block Upgrade) program improved performance of aeronautical data system in the International Civil Aviation Organization and a core technology of Integrated Aeronautical Data Management Network to elevate service through digitally aeronautical information management. Therefore, in this paper, we analyze SWIM architecture and network applied the concept of SOA(Service Oriented Architecture), and propose methods of implementation transforming applications operating established legacy aeronautical data system into integrated aeronautical data management network through adapter technology. This will allow development of middleware and application suitable for the next generation infrastructure network environment for efficient ATM(Air Traffic Management)and provide timely required information for users.

ASBU기반의 항공데이터 종합관리망 테스트베드 구축방안

국제민간항공기구(ICAO)는 ASBU(Aviation System Block Upgrade)를 통해서 2013년부터 20년간 항공관련 데이터 시스템의 성능을 향상시키는 프로그램을 채택하였다. 프로그램의 일부분으로써 SWIM(System Wide Information Management) 기술 개발을 통한 항공통신 데이터를 종합 관리하는 망에 대한 연구개발은 미국, 유럽 선진국들을 중심으로 진행 중이다. 이에 따라, 본 논문에서는 선진국들의 개발 동향과 대등한 기술개발을 위해 SOA(Service Oriented Architecture) 개념을 적용한 항공 데이터 서비스 아키텍처 기술개발, 항공 데이터의 종합적 관리를 위한 미래형 데이터 관리 모델 개발, 기존의 항공 데이터 시스템과 연동을 위한 어댑터 기술 개발을 통하여 사용자 중심의 항공데이터 종합 관리망 기술을 개발하는 방법에 기반한 테스트베드 구축 방안을 제안한다. International Civil Aviation Organization adopted the program to improve performance of aviation-related data systems through the ASBU for 20 years from 2013. Research and development for integrated management network of aeronautical telecommunication data through SWIM(System Wide Information Management) technology which is part of program, are being progressed in the United States and European countries. Therefore, in this paper, we suggest a method of testbed implementation based on technology of aeronautical data services architecture applied the concept of SOA(Service Oriented Architecture), development of future data management model for integrated management of aeronautical data, and development of user-centric integrated aeronautical data management network through adapter technology for interoperating legacy aeronautical data system to develop even technology with development trends of advanced countries.

Study on Dynamic Services Composition of Web Services Based on BPEL

From the core concepts of SOA (Service-Oriented Architecture) "Service" starting the service composition is discussed in detail, from the service relationships network modeling, services dynamic composition approach based on Business Process Execution Language BPEL (Business Process Execution Language) is proposed in this paper, meanwhile two concepts of service agent and service quality are described, which achieve the service process dynamic execution.

Operational Value and Accessibility of Services in SOA-based Intelligence Information Systems

The concept of Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) can be used as a foundation for establishing an integrated Intelligence System, which would be based on services as software components. It offers better coordination among institutions involved in intelligence, thus providing increase of intelligence effectiveness. In this article, the central focus is placed on determining measurement tools that allow evaluation of the service’s potential within an Intelligence Information System (IIS). The defined metrics’ aim is to estimate the accessibility status of services in IIS, thus facilitating the decision-making process prior to initializing a request for intelligence data gathering. Taking into account the individual service characteristics of reliability and cost, we gain additional insight into both momentary and periodic, weighted accessibility status of the system. By employing these estimations we hope to enhance our ability to understand, and consequently control and improve the results produced by our IIS.

Promises from SOA

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to support the application of a combined BPM (business process management)/SOA (service‐oriented architecture) approach and contribute to the body of knowledge on the business value of SOA.Design/methodology/approachThis case study highlights the promising results of a process reengineering project at Belgacom Mobile, Belgium's largest mobile telecommunications operator. The reengineering effort centered around a key automation pillar involving in particular the optimization of the SIM card ordering process. SOA principles were applied to ensure both the flexibility of the redesigned process and its capability of dealing with newly emerging SIM card types. This case demonstrates the potential benefits of combining BPM and SOA concepts to establish IT‐enabled process innovation.FindingsIn terms of performance improvement, the studied project resulted in: increased process flexibility and consistency, considerably shorter lead times, and enhanced process control.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings from this case study present useful insights for other companies trying to reap the benefits of combined BPM and SOA. However, the single case study approach presents some limitations to the generalizability of the proposed learning points and concepts. Some case specific features such as the sector or company size might influence the generalizability. Nevertheless, the paper rather intends to trigger conceptual thinking about IT‐enabled process innovation and an architectural approach.Originality/valueThe added value of this project, which contributes to the general understanding of SOA potential for BPM, lies in its innovative approach, whereby product and process are separated by means of production process ID creation. The redesign approach thus provides a sustainable answer to the ever shortening life cycle of products and technologies. In particular process practitioners will find value in reading the learning points from this paper.

Do service-oriented IT architectures facilitate business process outsourcing?

How does a firm’s IT architecture affect its potential to outsource business processes? As Information Technology (IT) has become many firms’ essential operational infrastructure or “backbone”, we are interested in scrutinizing to what extent the kind of IT architecture affects a firm’s boundaries or the plasticity of its boundaries. Focusing on the particular concept of service-oriented architectures (SOA), we concretely ask: How does SOA affect business process outsourcing potentials? Since SOA is widely expected to modularize the IT implementation of business processes, it should increase business process outsourcing (BPO) in terms of buying in the provision of single business functionalities. We develop and empirically evaluate a theoretical model that conceptualizes the relationship between SOA and BPO. Questionnaire data from 115 firms give first evidence that SOA facilitates BPO. By increasing IT modularity, SOA supports BPO by increasing sourcing flexibility and, in particular, operational benefits, while at the same time lowering financial risks and strategic risks, such as lock-in. Overall, however, firms see SOA-based BPO mainly in an operational context with low hidden costs and little strategic benefits.

Technical Factors for Implementing SOA-Based Business Intelligence Architecture: An Exploratory Study

Business intelligence (BI) architecture based on service-oriented architecture (SOA) concept enables enterprises to deploy agile and reliable BI applications. However, the key factors for implementing a SOA-based BI architecture from technical perspectives have not yet been systematically investigated. Most of the prior studies focus on organisational and managerial perspectives rather than technical factors. Therefore, this study explores the key technical factors that are most likely to have an impact on the implementation of a SOA-based BI architecture. This paper presents a conceptual model of BI architecture built on SOA concept. Drawing on academic and practitioner literature related to SOA and software architectural design, we propose fourteen key factors that may influence the implementation of a SOA-based BI architecture. This study bridges the gap between academic and practitioners.

Service-oriented Process Control with Grafchart and the Devices Profile for Web Services

To fulfill increasing requirements within the manufacturing sector, highly flexible and adaptable automation systems are needed. It is desirable to have one integrated approach that stretches from the process planning phase, through the implementation phase and all the way to the phase for execution of the process control logics. One promising approach is to use the concepts of service-oriented architectures within automation, here referred to as SOA-AT. As service technology, DPWS has proved to be the most suitable for realizing service based communication on device level. The paper shows how Grafchart, a graphical language aimed for sequential control applications, can support the development of DPWS applications, and how Grafchart can be used for process modeling and execution in the planning and execution phase. This constitutes a unique framework for the development and execution of SOA applications in accordance with the requirements for automatic control tasks. The paper also presents an industry-related experimental setup in which the SOA-AT concepts are demonstrated through the use of Grafchart.

Comparing CORBA and Web-Services in view of a Service Oriented Architecture

The concept of Service Oriented Architecture revolves around registering services as tasks. These tasks are accomplished collectively by various disparate components seamlessly connected to one another. The task of interlinking these components may be considered amongst the most convoluted and difficult tasks currently faced by software practitioners. This paper attempts to show that although middleware technologies can be solely utilized to develop service oriented architecture, however such architecture would severely lack quality, interoperability and ease of implementation. In order to resolve these complexities and complications this paper proposes Web Services as an alternative to Middleware, for the realization of a fully functional interoperable and an automated SOA which conforms to the characteristics of a SOA. This paper provides an abstract implementation model of a SOA using both middleware and web services. It then attempts to point out the implementation and accepted benefits of the latter, especially when legacy applications are involved. Emphasize is laid out on the significance of interoperability since it assists in mobility and other corporate benefits. The paper concludes that when interoperability along with its benefits of mobility, expansion, costs, simplicity and enterprise integration are required in the construction of a SOA then web services should be the definite integration choice. The paper also highlights the importance of object oriented middleware, along with situations in which it might be preferred over web services.

A Combinational Approach of GIS and SOA for Performance Improvement of Organization

A GIS (Geographic Information System), is a system designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present all types of geographically referenced data. In other words, GIS is the merging of statistical analysis, database technology and cartography that can be integrated into any enterprise information system framework. But despite all these advantages, geographic information systems that used in organizational structures, is faced with some problems such as lack of interoperability, business alignment, and agility. This paper first analyzes the connotation, model structure and main features of GIS and Service Oriented Architecture (SOA). Then we propose a service oriented GIS platform which uses SOA concepts as the basic architectural concept and employs OGC (Open Geospatial Consortium) standards to support GIS concerns in the organization. Our combinational approach, using features such as loose coupling, integrity, independence and etc., can overcome the most of GIS problems such as lack of interoperability, business alignment, and agility.

Study on Design Method of Logistics Platform Based on SOA & ESB

The quick development of internet technology and electronic commerce has driven the demand of internationalization of logistics services. The internationalization trend of logistics requests that local logistics system should integrate with other information systems in terms of data, business and knowledge. However, the integration among heterogeneous systems has always been the key problem to the development of internet technology. More and more information systems of the logistics enterprises become “information solitary islands”, due to the incompatibility of IT en-vironment, database format or knowledge structure. As the demand of business and technique changing, a large number of “solitary islands” are destined to be legacy systems, which causing a great waste of resources. The article employed the SOA (Service Oriented Architecture) framework and ESB (Enterprise Service Bus) technology to solve integration problems among heterogeneous systems. SOA is a software architecture theory, which based on services as components. ESB is employed to supply SOA with base architecture of message-oriented middleware in the term of in-cremental bus. However, there isn’t any integrated design method for logistics system based on SOA & ESB up to now. To fill the gap, this article presents an integrated design method through analyzing the integration environment of logistics platform, building service directory, designing system architecture and service components. The most significant results show that Firstly, this ar-ticle has presented a stratified implementation model for logistics platform to implement SOA con-cept into system model framework, so as to guide the design and development. Secondly, it also presents methods of system analysis and design with samples in following steps: service catalogue design, integral architecture design, service design, service and module depending design and ser-vice implementation design. The whole design method has been used successfully in actual project of design and development of international logistics platform. It is proved that this method can effi-ciently create integrated service logic, reduce the cost of design and development, and improve the compatibility of logistics system.

The service-oriented, interoperable and knowledge-sharing architecture for ship specifications

In the shipbuilding process, the information flow connected with ship specification files is very complex. These files are usually scattered as different file formats in various departments or stored as a database in the heterogeneous systems within a shipyard. Therefore, it is extremely difficult to integrate the information coming from different stages of shipbuilding, much less to share integrated information among various departments. To address that problem, the authors employ the service-oriented architecture concept to develop the knowledge-sharing architecture for ship specifications (KSASS). Equipped with extensible mark-up language and Web services technology, the KSASS is used to integrate the outline, full and construction specification files, which originate from three phases of shipbuilding. In this way, the database of ship specifications is established which is easily accessible and highly interoperable. The integrated specification files can not only be structurally preserved but also conveniently transmitted among the heterogeneous systems, with the open system achieved. Eventually, the knowledge owned by the shipyard will be efficiently managed, applied and shared.

Assessing Internal Software Quality Attributes of the Object-Oriented and Service-Oriented Software Development Paradigms: A Comparative Study

Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) is becoming the dominant approach for developing and organizing distributed enterprise-wide applications. Although the concepts of SOA have been extensively described in the literature and in-dustry, the effects of adopting SOA on software quality are still unclear. The aim of the paper is to analyze how adopt-ing SOA can affect software quality as opposed to the Object-Oriented (OO) paradigm and expose the differential implications of adopting both paradigms on software quality. The paper provides a brief introduction of the architectural differences between the Service-Oriented (SO) and OO paradigms and a description of internal software quality metrics used for the comparison. The effects and differences are exposed by providing a case study architected for both paradigms. The quantitative measure concluded in the paper showed that a software system developed using SOA approach provides higher reusability and lower coupling among software modules, but at the same time higher complexity than those of the OO approach. It was also found that some of the existing OO software quality metrics are inapplicable to SOA software systems. As a consequence, new metrics need to be developed specifically to SOA software systems.

The impact of Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) technologies in global market-oriented enterprises

The business value created by Information Technology (IT) in modern enterprises is questionable in relation to the invested amount of money, usually, owing to bad formulation of their IT strategy. Service-Oriented Architectures (SOA) technologies seem to be capable of providing the enterprises with technological solutions for formulating an IT Strategy of competitive advantage. The well-known Balanced Scorecard (BSC) method can prove SOA’s value through its enforcement to SOA implementations on real business environments. Towards this direction, this paper, after presenting the SOA concepts and technologies, examines based on the BSC the implications of SOA approach in business operations and results.

The Service-Oriented Metaphor Deciphered

Received 1 November 2010; Revised 6 December 2010; Accepted 13 December 2010 In this article we review the metaphor of service-oriented architecture for enterprise computing. In typical definitions service-oriented architecture appears as a single message and a consistent roadmap for building flexible software system landscapes. But it is not. Different communities have elaborated different SOA (service-oriented architecture) concepts to address different problem areas, i.e., enterprise application integration, business-to-business, business process management, and software productizing. If software architects and software managers are aware of these strands of SOA when talking about SOA in their projects they can avoid misunderstandings and detours better. This article contributes a clarification of the different strands of SOA concepts and technologies and their mutual dependencies and identifies particular SOA concepts as instances of more general software engineering principles.

Service-Oriented Business-IT Alignment: a SOA Governance Model

The concept of Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) has had a significant impact not only on software engineering but on the analysis of an organization’s business layer as well. It contributes to developing information systems that are compatible with the needs of agile organizations. This fact brings us to investigate the new approach of Business-IT Alignment (BITA) by utilizing SOA features. In this paper we will first examine the importance of SOA in both business and IT perspectives. We will proceed by showing the SOA governance as a roadmap for bringing the concept of SOA in the context of BITA (as one of the major IT challenges). Finally, we will propose a SOA Governance Model (SOAGM) that should help aligning IT investments with business strategies.

Service-oriented, standards-based 3D geovisualization: Potential and challenges

The application of the architectural concept of service-oriented architectures (SOA) in combination with open standards when building distributed, 3D geovisualization systems offers the potential to cover and take advantage of the opportunities and demands created by the rise of ubiquitous computer networks and the Internet as well as to overcome prevalent interoperability barriers. In this paper, based on a literature study and our own experiences, we discuss the potential and challenges that arise when building standards-based, distributed systems according to the SOA paradigm for 3D geovisualization, with a particular focus on 3D geovirtual environments and virtual 3D city models. First, we briefly introduce fundamentals of the SOA paradigm, identify requirements for service-oriented 3D geovisualization systems, and present an architectural framework that relates SOA concepts, geovisualization concepts, and standardization proposals by the Open Geospatial Consortium in a common frame of reference. Next, we discuss the potential and challenges driven by the SOA paradigm on four different levels of abstraction, namely service fundamentals, service composition, interaction services, performance, and overarching aspects, and we discuss those driven by standardization. We further exemplify and substantiate the discussion in the scope of a case study and the image-based provisioning of and interaction with visual representations of remote virtual 3D city models.

Development of an enterprise decision platform: Service-Oriented Architecture approach

Group decision making activities have been applied in many domains in the enterprises. As many decision algorithms can be used for various domains and one domain can use various decision algorithms, this paper proposes an Enterprise Decision Platform (EDP) for the development of the adaptive decision applications. EDP is the intelligent multi-agent framework which embeds the decision algorithms as intelligent agents, and applies the architecture concept of Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) which is implemented by web-services. An application development of Intelligent Supplier Evaluation System (ISES) demonstrates how this proposed model functions.

Innovative design issues of a distributed e-learning environment

The rapid rate of technological change on Web based education will produce a global education economy in which institutions will face competition on a global scale. Educational organisations should be flexible in order to succeed. The scope of this paper is to present a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) approach to facilitate educational online activities in the context of an e-university. Our aim is to construct a set of interoperable network services that conform to appropriate standards. A key challenge is the integration of previously ill-defined services into existing e-university platforms and the ability to adapt their behaviour to new requirements. The main contribution of this paper is a framework composed of loosely coupled components, according to IMS specifications. The proposed environment is based on predefined modules for available services, using SOA concepts and workflows. The ultimate goal of our framework is to enable an efficient mechanism for the searching, identification and delivery of educational content, tailored to specific end user profiles.