Abstract: A method and apparatus to automatically map between disparate message formats are provided. In one embodiment, the mapping begins by message selecting a target field in a target business object. A concept associated with the target field is identified in a synonym dictionary. A set of synonyms associated with the concept is received. In the source document, fields are identified which contain synonyms that match the synonyms in the target field. For those source fields that match the target field, a match exists and the fields are said to be mapped.

Abstract: A method comprising defining one or more aggregate virtual fields for a first document using meta-data associated with the first document is disclosed.

Abstract: A documentation system for improving the efficiency of maintaining the records of mapping among applications is described. The method of documenting linkage of applications to each other includes displaying source application objects and target application objects along different axis. At selected intersection points of the source application objects and the target application objects, the user of the system inserts cells which define the mapping rules relating the objects. The cells include a unique identification field which identifies the particular mapping relationship between designated fields in the objects.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically selecting a rule during the mapping process, and storing the rule independently of message type, is provided. The method and apparatus allow these rules to be inferred during the mapping process, and to be manipulated easily by a user.