actions a day”.
There are some who argue that middleware is no longer necessary. They argue that browser-based solutions eliminate the need for it, but not all devices required for these solutions work with all applications. Further, not all data storage devices and personal computers have a browser. Therefore, middleware is still necessary for those who wish to improve communication efficiency and information productivity. For example, Ohlson (12) points out that WebMethods has unveiled a new middleware software that is built to save time and money during the integration of supply chains via packaged integrations “It consists of hooks between supply-chain management applications from J.D. Edwards, Oracle, and SAP, and works with WebMethods’ existing enterprise software, middleware that sits between different applications and coordinates transactions”.
These kinds of middleware help automate tasks, organize information, make information retrieval more efficient, and reduce manual labor. These kinds of software help an organization retain competitive advantage in the E-commerce arena by making customer interaction less cumbersome and more efficient. Databases, technology, and e-business infrastructures are all corporate assets. By using middleware Information Technology (IT) managers hope to leverage these assets and increase company value, improve security, and make communication interactions easier.
Middleware is evolving and gaining in popularity among IT managers who are taking proactive measures to take advantage of industry trends and remain competitive:
Business, employees and consumers are relying more and more on business-to-business and business-to-consumer e-commerce, as well as corporate intranet transactions, to save time and money and generate additional revenues. This increasing reliance on e-business is also raising user expectations and demands…IT managers must make sure they can scale a...