The flexibility provided by service-oriented architecture (SOA) enables the continuous optimization of business processes. But the traditional IT organization, which is oriented toward discrete business units and supported by vertically integrated applications, constrains this optimization rather than helps. To be effective, the IT organization must develop an orientation around end-to-end business processes. A number of existing IT roles need to be redefined to ensure that this process orientation is reflected in IT’s strategies and plans. Furthermore, the IT organizational structure itself should change to make these redefined roles effective and deliver service-oriented IT (SO-IT).
