Complex and Complicated

A complicated system is an assembly of silo’ed sub-systems, each capable of independent operation, typically chained together along a single, or limited number, of linear flow(s). An example might be a collection of workflows used to manufacture a product. Each workflow, or sub-system although inter-related, is not necessarily inter-linked.

Complex systems are comprised of inter-linked and inter-dependent components, often chained together to offer multiple execution paths. For a complex system to function correctly the interactions between the co-operating components need to be correctly co-ordinated.

Loosely coupled systems are complex. These systems are comprised of large numbers of inter-linked, and co-operating services. The business processes utilising these systems can also be complex, often comprising multiple possible execution paths for each transaction instance, over long periods of time.

Ensuring the continuous alignment of an executing transaction instance with the required corporate process across these systems can be difficult. Assurance needs to be provided that all the required interactions are complete, that not additional interactions have been introduced, that all the messaging events have executed in the correct order, and that each transaction instance has correctly executed across its assigned execution path.

To ensure the continuous alignment of the executing events with the required process requires the continuous monitoring and comparison of all service interaction against a comprehensive description of the required process. This description needs to capture both the required service interactions for each execution path as well as the required sequencing of these interactions.

Only by the continuous monitoring and comparison of the actual executing events against a comprehensive process description can variances from the required process be immediately identified and addressed and assurance delivered that every transaction instance has executed in aligned with the required business strategy.