What is Middleware? Simply put it is the middle part(s) of an application that connects
or “glues” the User Interface (UI) to the Persistent Source which is usually a database
or file system. Although there are many types of Middleware, they basically share
the same principles. Multi Tier software solutions usually considers Middleware
as the inner layers which may be designed to be location unspecific so that the
inner layers (Middleware) can be relocated to other machines to maximize connectivity
and processing power.
Image 1 – Middleware is the inner layers that make up an application solution
Middleware services provide a functional set of application programming interfaces
(API) to allow an application to:
- Be independent from network services
- Be reliable and always available
- Providing uniform, standard high-level application programming interfaces (API)
so that applications can be easily composed, reused, ported, and made to interoperate
and collaboration between applications and to avoid duplicating efforts
The following are main benefits of using Middleware in a given solution:
- Encapsulating and keeping business logic and its code (implementation) internal
while providing specific functionality to select channels for access and use
- Allow access to areas of information which otherwise would be restricted to only
those who have internal access such as a corporation’s database
- Provide reuse of business logic and information to other systems such as a corporate
intranet, business reporting, public websites, internal, corporate and public services,
etc.
- Centralize quality control, accessibility, data quality and reduce redundancy
- Structured control, consistency and conformity
- Flexibility in installations and expansion to maximize flexibility and performance
- Increased interoperability amongst different systems and sources
- Allows expansion and change while minimizing the effects on existing system currently
using the Middleware
Companies implementing Multi Tier approaches to their software solutions are reaping
the benefits and are poised for smoother grow transition. The above mentioned Middleware
layer(s) are a matter of design given the current and future needs of the business.
Prior to commencing any engagement that will involve Middleware solutions would
be to consult with experts who can properly assess the current environment - being
existing software, hardware, processes and policies and work with you to begin to
design a suitable solution.
If you have questions, concerns or would like to know how to get started,