We are at a very important juncture in the evolution of service-oriented architecture. An incredibly important issue right now is whether we are going to win broad acceptance and deep penetration, or whether SOA remains somewhat marginal.

There are a number of things going on in the market that deserve examination. Trends and developments in information technology such as market acceptance and tipping points -- and a sort of social-animal instinct influencing how people behave -- become very important. It is no longer just about the technology; it's about what motivates people, particularly in their businesses.