InformationWeek

Architecting Success Get off the cloud and realize that your infrastructure is an agent for success. Don't let the hype about the latest iterations of outsourcing distract you. For most organizations, the IT infrastructure is still a differentiator; network and systems architects who make informed decisions will not only stay relevant, they'll contribute to the bottom line. The key? Make smart use of new technologies like SOA and virtualization while keeping your eye on nascent efficiency enhancers like voice over Wi-Fi. On the server virtualization front, the trick isn't spawning virtual machines. It's ensuring that VM sprawl doesn't put sensitive data at risk. Likewise, SOA is a disruptive force that demands governance. In both cases, it's all too easy to get carried away by sexy technology and forget basic discipline. In contrast, Vo-Fi initiatives are languishing. Blame a tough economy or underpowered WLANs, but few of your competitors are giving employees single-number access while saving on cellular charges. With 11n on the horizon, it's time to re-evaluate. Time To Halt Runaway VM Sprawl Companies creating virtual machines without governance and change management equivalent to physical servers are headed for trouble. Effective SOA Requires Intermediaries ESB, design-time governance, runtime management, and XML security gateways are must-haves for SOA. Or are they? Voice Over Wi-Fi Holds ROI Promise Want to reduce the king's ransom you pay to your cellular carrier every month? Look to the WLAN.