IBM launches online social networking site to promote SOA adaptation

IBM has launched an online social network site aimed at promoting service oriented architectures (SOA), or systems that integrate technology with businesses.

The site includes IBM customers, partners, academics and other interested SOA parties in more than 120 countries. Through this site, IBM indicates participants can host virtual meetings in Second Life and connect with other local chapter meetings that are coordinated by the technology manufacturer.

IBM reports since its IMPACT 2007 conference (an industry event for SOA customers and business partners), it has seen a 258 per cent increase in SOA certifications.

In addition to a growth in SOA registrants, IBM reports it has also improved its Innov8 with Web 2.0, a game designed to teach students and professionals core business and IT skills related to business process management and business events. (View video)

As part of IMPACT 2008 -industry leaders, academics, analysts, IBM Business Partners and employees from around the world will be moderating a 72 hour online jam for the global SOA social network to discuss issues, challenges and ideas related to SOA hosted by IBM .
 
Sandy Carter, vice president, WebSphere and SOA strategy, channels and marketing, IBM said ''Building on our successful pilot program in China, IBM is expanding its SOA social network as a way to share best practices, accelerate SOA projects and bring together the business.''

IBM's SOA social network covers more than 120 countrie around the globe. Brian Blake, associate professor and chair, Department of Computer Science, Georgetown University asserts,"As an academic and consultant, the SOA social network will help meet the needs of a growing community of IT and business professionals."

The IBM SOA social network is capable of hosting virtual meetings in Second Life as well connect face-to-face with other members in the SOA social network through local chapter meetings that are being coordinated by IBM. 

It has been noticed by business analysts and LOB executives attending IMPACT that there is an increased focus on industry-specific education sessions,offerings that address the specific business and IT challenges inherent in vertical industries.

The IBM SOA social networkhas been made open to any customers,interested parties aiming to advance and share SOA knowledge and the  best available practices.