How can Interoperability Impact on Systems-of-Information Systems Characteristics?

Abstract

Systems-of-Information Systems are a specific type of systems-ofsystems composed of independent information systems working together to deliver new capabilities. Despite the benefits of the synergistic collaboration of IS, the establishment of interoperability links in the context of a SoIS is still a challenge, specially because of the characteristics of this type of complex systems, i.e., autonomy, belonging, connectivity, diversity, dynamism, emergent behavior, evolutionary development, interdependence. The purpose of this paper is to analyze how approaches to establish interoperability may affect these specific characteristics of SoIS. We analyzed interoperability approaches defined in ISO14258 (integrated, unified, federated) and discussed their implications in designing and managing interoperability in SoIS. We used a knowledge base containing ontological descriptions for well-known interoperability problems and their solutions to support our discussion. As a contribution, we provide a reference for SoIS architects on interoperability approaches and their impacts.