Steps towards enterprise-wide integration: a definition of need and first-generation open solutions

The need is described for an architectural framework which unifies the use of an open systems integrating infrastructure and a modelling framework to enable wider-scope CIM systems to be designed, implemented and maintained. In addition, an industrial case study use of the CIM-BIOSYS integrating infrastructure is reported to highlight the benefits of its use, particularly in terms of the ability to manage and support inherent integration processes in a highly flexible, extendible and maintainable manner.