A SOA (Service-Oriented Architecture) is a component model that inter-relates the different functional units of an application, called services, through interfaces and contracts between these services. The interface is well defined in a neutral manner that is independent of the hardware platform, the operating system, and the programming language the service is implemented in. This neutrality is known as loose coupling between services. The benefit of a loosely-coupled system is its agility and its ability to survive changes in the structure and implementation of the services that make up the whole application. Loosely-coupled systems are necessary if a business application is to become agile and based upon the needs of the business to adapt to changes in its environment such as changing policies, business strengths, business focus, partnerships, industry standing, and other business-related factors that influence the nature of the business.

This briefing provides an in-depth look at service-oriented architectures, starting with the basics of the technologies, and focusing on Rational and WebSphere’s world-class tools for designing and constructing an SOA. The briefing closes with a review of best practices, resources, and calls to action.

Session overview:

• Overview – What are SOAs, how are they different from other distributed architectures, and why do they matter?
   
• SOA technologies – How do SOAs work? WSDL, SOAP, service discovery, and the principles of a Web service gateway and an Enterprise Service Bus
   
• Interoperability and standards – Interoperability between the J2EE world and others (.Net, LAMP, etc.). Standards and how they relate to business needs. How IBM products help implement standards.
   
• Patterns and Best Practices – Different ways of implementing SOAs and best practices learned from IBM’s experts in the field.
   
• References – References to developerWorks, books, articles, and other useful materials to help attendees get started.
   

REGISTER TODAY! Seats are limited on a first-come-first serve basis. It is our intent to keep the session small and informal. You may wish to share this invitation with your buddies.
 

Please ensure that you register in advance.