2007-03-05: Impediments to Open Networking

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[edit] From Systems to System of Systems

The currently prevailing approach to solving engineering, environmental and other complex problems is through the construction of systems dedicated to the solution of the problem at hand. In information processing, these are called stovepipe systems since the connections between the (stovepipe) components are rigid an there is little interaction with the external environment.

For the solution of complex problems, a new system of systems approach is now emerging which is based on networked architecture. The overall system is composed of loosely coupled autonomous components that are systems in their own right, thus the name system of systems (SoS). Some of the key characteristics of SoS are:

• Autonomous constituents managed independently
• Independent evolution of each constituent
• Displays emergent (novel, unpredictable) behavior

The Global Observing System of Systems (GEOSS) is a significant multi-nation Earth Monitoring effort that has embraced the SoS priciples.

The Service Oriented Architecture of DataFed has been designed with SoS principles in mind. The technical implementation of DataFed using loosely coupled web service components is well developed, tested and applied in several air pollution applications. Also, over the 2005-2006 period, there was some experience gained on the 'social' aspects of the new networked approach.

[edit] Why can't we network?

Most of the technical issues of connecting, sharing and interoperating are more-or-less taken care of. The key problems of SOA and SoS concepts is in the social or human domain. Some of the symptoms are given below. I am reluctant even to try to explain why these symptoms occur. ...

• Some providers are reluctant to make to contribute reusable components/services to the community
• Many users/client of services hezitate to to incorporate data/services provided by others
• Frequently the data flow mediators are seeking to be 'one-stop' portals

There are probably very good reason this pattern of behavior by the key players. However, at this time a seamless conneftivity into value chains by networking, i.e. the the true network effect, is not in the cards yet but I am optimistic that mutually satisfactory remedies will be found soon. Rhusar 17:42, 5 March 2007 (CST)