The main focus of this paper is on the "whys" of SOA governance, including a definition, examination of the roles and benefits of governance, and guidance regarding how to develop and maintain effective SOA governance.

SOA is a strategic set of standards and practices. Therefore, to succeed, SOA requires investment in strategic management of those standards and practices. While there is no hard data stating that governance will lead to SOA success, there is plenty of evidence pointing to business and technological failures based on a lack of defined and executed management. This paper includes examples from business and IT executives that have endured SOA failures that cite a lack of effective rules of engagement, technology and management practices, or strategic executive involvement.