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Enterprise Application Integration
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In Enterprise Application Integration (EAI), the challenge is making work together different applications, generally operating on different computer systems, often in different locations all within a single company. Or it may be the same application but in different offices, or even different applications on the same computer system. The goal is to reduce typing in information in one system that is found in another and to seemlessly make all information available to those that need it. The solution for EAI may be found in a number of different means. It could involve sending messages between systems, similar to Business to Business Communication. In this case, however, the complexity is generally less as a single party owns both ends of the circuitous path the message may follow. EAI may use store-and-forward techniques, not much different to the venerable 'batch processing' of decades ago, simply to ensure the information is reliably delivered no matter what. Often it involves capturing information from other systems using scripting languages, scheduled at various times through the day. The answer for EAI may use a mix of technologies such as web, XML and java.
Application Service InterfaceThe key to EAI is establishing an Application Service Interface (ASI). This is a mechanism generally local to where the existing application is found to map existing applications in a way that makes them available in a standard or independent way. On one side it is like a mold that matches exactly the peculiar rises and falls of the old application, but on the other side presents a common and uniform facade that other systems can utilise. Often the ASI works with a 'Message Engine' which drives the message process, transporting information from one point to another reliably and securely.
Virtual Private NetworkWhile the ASI exposes the internal applications of a company, the messages must be linked to each other in a suitable way. While an internal local area network is suitable for a single physical location of a company, it is not appropriate for a company spread over a geographical disperse area. Private networks, where the company purchases a managed link between points may be one solution but this comes with a high price. A virtual Private Network (VPN) can be established using the existing, low-cost Internet but this is protected with secure encryption to ensure privacy. But not all VPNs are the same. Care must be taken to ensure compatibility with appropriate software and hardware standards. |
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