Service-oriented architecture (SOA) is the most effective way to overcome the complexities involved in creating businesses that are responsive to their markets.
This is according to IDC`s worldwide SOA-based services 2006 to 2010 forecast, which examined and compared major service providers with SOA-based professional services offerings and capabilities.
SOA is the software architecture that allows independent applications on a network to access one another in a standardised way.
"Service providers that do not incorporate SOA in their service offerings will not be able to compete effectively in the future," says Marianne Hedin, IDC`s programme manager for the project.
Although the study was on a global scale, SA is part of this global market and the results reflect the local SOA situation as well, says Roy Blume, research manager, BMI-TechKnowledge.
The study found SOA will need to be introduced into every service a vendor offers in order to garner the best results.
"Vendors must take SOA into consideration for IT services. It is a business service that is not specific to one environment. It is almost an umbrella that can be integrated to the services of the vendor," says Blume.
The majority of services vendors surveyed noted SOA is now a core element of their service portfolio, and indicated they provide many SOA-related services.
"The focus is now towards providing a business service to the end-user," Blume says.
Partnerships
Furthermore, partnering and partnerships in business were found to be essential in order to deploy SOA. This was especially true in cases where business operations grew and acquired a larger IT infrastructure.
"Partnerships are vital, because SOA is not a single product and businesses may benefit from one another`s resources and expertise," Blume says. "It is a potentially complex environment, but it doesn`t have to be."
The study revealed the opportunity to implement SOA in the small business market is growing.
Small businesses have the same needs as large enterprise, although these may require more simplified implementation, Blume says.
Other findings include the top four SOA clients by verticals: financial services, government, healthcare and retail.
A South African focused study will be conducted during the course of the year. BMI-T will hold a SOA forum next month to kick-start this process, says Blume.
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