Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) provides the design framework to integrate siloed applications so that their functionality can be accessed as services on a network. Most commonly implemented through standards-based, technology-neutral Web Services, SOA breaks down monolithic applications into a suite of services, implementing functionality in a modular fashion. The article also throws light on how SOA allows the creation of services and composite applications that exist independent of the underlying technologies.

Organisations are increasingly reliant on their IT infrastructure to help drive success. But in an increasingly competitive marketplace, capitalising on new business opportunities means moving fast.

However, a lack of integration among IT assets—systems, applications and data—makes it difficult for IT to respond quickly and effectively to changing business needs. Consequently, worker productivity is negatively impacted, and growth and competitiveness are compromised.