Next Generation Application Integration: From Simple Information to Web Services

The Process

Although the Big Four consulting firms promote a number of methodologies for creating an automated supply chain, the process is really just like traditional system development—with a twist.

The first step is to automate and optimize all of the major business processes within each member organization. Attempting to integrate a supply chain before the members have their core systems in place will be costly, frustrating, and futile. The second step is to extend the enterprise to incorporate all members in the supply chain. This is the most difficult and time-consuming part of the process. This step requires psychology as well as technology. Once your members' hearts and souls are in the right place, you will find that application integration ...