Architecture-Centered Information Systems In The Manufacturing Domain - Part I - Introduction to Software Architecture
Glen B. Alleman - September 4, 2002

Part I - Introduction to Software Architecture

The use of an architecture-centered design process for delivering information technology began with the introduction of client / server based systems. Early client/server and legacy mainframe applications did not provide the architectural flexibility needed to meet the changing business requirements of the modern manufacturing organization. With the introduction of Object Oriented systems, the need for an architecture-centered process becomes a critical success factor. Object reuse, layered system components, data abstraction, web based user interfaces, CORBA, and rapid development and deployment processes all provide economic incentives for object technologies. However, adopting the latest object oriented technology, without an adequate understanding of how this technology fits a specific architecture, risks the creation of an instant legacy system...