Web Services: Enabling Dynamic Business Networks

Abstract

A Dynamic Business Network is a distinct system of participants (customers, suppliers, complimentors, competitors, service providers) that use the network to achieve customer satisfaction and profitability and where participants and relationships evolve over time. However, unpredictability and rapid change in a Dynamic Business Network creates a significant challenge in implementing and supporting business application software. Traditional information systems implementation methods require an a priori design and are built for a particular purpose for use over an extended period of time. Loosely coupled business networks change interrelationships between nodes both quickly and frequently, thus providing little or no notice for planning, implementing, or changing the supporting applications. The dynamic sourcing capabilities of the emerging Web Services framework provide a key to enabling these complex eco-systems. We explore the strategic and technological dimensions of Web Services and describe how they can be used to support dynamic business networks.