Smart Business Networks: Architectural Aspects and Risks

Abstract

This paper summarizes key attributes and the uniqueness of smart business networks; it proposes thereafter an operational implementation architecture. It involves, amongst others, the embedding of business logic specific to a network of business partners, inside the communications control networks. It also involves the definition of business protocols between these partners and the joint management of some common functions relying on open networking standards. This implies some key paradigm changes and business risks, both of a technical and of a business nature, which are offered here for discussion via a set of propositions.

Keywords: Smart business networks, Architecture, Implementation, Risks, Control networks

JEL Classification: M2, O3