Abstract: A system and method for expanding the capabilities of a SOAP envelope to include information useful for processing messages between a requestor and provider is disclosed. The message structure defines seven standard header blocks; each defined to provide data specific to a common infrastructure capability of an enterprise messaging infrastructure. Additionally, standard header blocks are included within a message envelope to preserve data when a transformation occurs such as, for example, alternating between transport protocols or converting the message language.

Abstract: A method for combining the management of enterprise data along with a set of service design principles to allow users to derive the proper set of consistent services and structures is disclosed. The method leads to a more consistent, higher quality, lower cost service environment. The method also helps to standardize how companies create services, which will result in more consistent deliverables with decreased development time, development cost, and overall project risk. The method also promotes building a smaller set of highly reusable services, rather than a large set of single-use services, providing significant savings on service maintenance costs and high opportunities for cost avoidance through reuse.