Thoughts on the Government and SOA

Not sure if you have much insight into the government marketplace for technology if you live outside of the DC area, but from where I sit (20 miles outside of DC), the US government push into SOA is full steam ahead.

Why? It's a matter of getting their own inter- and intra-organization systems integration ambitions moving forward, and what better way than under the flag of a new notion -- SOA. Indeed, I'm seeing more SOA activities within the government agencies than within the Global 2000 companies I'm dealing with. Good thing? Sure, as long as they define a clear plan of attack and make sure to do their homework.

The problem with the governmental problem domains is that they are not only complex and bureaucratic, but they are largely unknown to a single entity. They are spread out, and it's very difficult to find a single point of governance, or at least a point that has influence, and without that you have no chance of success. However, I am seeing some agencies, both civilian and military, address this issue today.

So, how do you win the SOA war within the government? Here are a few of my suggestions:

First, establish an entity within the organization that not only has clearly defined responsibility for building the SOA but the proper influence to get it done. You may want to do this at the department level, and then work your way up. Small battles win the war here, I've found.

Second, focus your technology analysis efforts in a single area. This means setting up a competency center where the technology can undergo testing and analysis, versus doing the testing for each organization or contract. This will save money and provide a better overall understanding of the technology.

Finally, established reuse and ROI guidelines. We are doing this for a reason, to save money and operate efficiently. Thus, let's set some goals that can are achievable by those implementing SOA, including return on investment. Not an easy thing to do, I know, but necessary if we are to justify additional investment.

Posted by Dave Linthicum on March 13, 2006 08:10 AM