Thoughts on a Design Framework for System Integration

The problem of integrating heterogeneous systems is discussed. Some keys to the success of multi-system integration are establishing a team environment among those performing the integration, ensuring data interoperability, and designing an integrated system that takes into account everything the new system must do. The interaction of personnel to build a collaborative and trusting environment for the integration process is discussed. The important issues related to data interoperability, such as data naming, structure and content, are described. The data and personnel elements are then considered within a design framework. The framework of Cormier is reposed as a series of questions that should be considered before the integration development. Regulative elements of system integration, such as the impact of the Canadian Privacy Act on personal information, are also considered.