Reference Architecture for Integration Platforms

In addition to in-house applications, networked enterprises are increasingly using data and services from various external sources. Conversion of data to useful information and IT alignment with business goals are big challenges faced by these enterprises. Integration platforms (IPs) aid enterprises in solving such challenges. However, the large number of commercial and academic IPs currently available have created a new problem for enterprises, namely whether to build their own IP or buy/rent a existing IP. Also, how to choose from the plethora of different design/solution options that are available? This paper presents a study and analysis of 31 IPs to bring out best practices in IP design. Following a commonality analysis of IPs from different research domains, an IP reference architecture is proposed. The reference architecture will aid enterprises in making better IP design/solution choices. It can also contribute to IP research by acting as a common reference point for future IP analysis.