concurrent architecture

Concurrent architecture is when the information systems of any company are designed to be completely compatible with its other facilities across distance, space, and time. In other words, it is the architecture of a computer system that ensures that all computers and technology work together and communicate together.

Computers have been around for many years and over the years we have become more and more dependent on them to perform certain functions. Home computer users rely on computers to do homework, surf the Internet, chat with friends and family, and keep track of their bills. However, businesses rely on their computer systems to do much more. Therefore, it is imperative for businesses to have computer systems that can “talk” to one another.

The definition of concurrent architecture refers to the building of computer systems that can act as a communication network across cities, states, countries, and even continents for large global companies.

Concurrent architecture is what has allowed the formation of a global society that is able to do business at a moment’s notice, no matter the distance that separates one company facility from the next.

Examples of Concurrent Architecture

• Metadatabase: The metadatabase serves two essential functions. It acts as the central hub for all communications for different company facilities. Local database information for each facility is linked to this central location and all information that is stored locally can be retrieved from the metadatabase.
• Local Hubs: If a company has facilities in multiple cities, such as Beijing, London, and St. Louis, the individual information on these computers would be stored in a local database for each of the facilities information systems. However, one location could access the other through the use of the central hub or metadatabase so that all facilities could communicate smoothly with one another.
• Software and Hardware: The software and hardware available at all of the locales would have to be the same or at least compatible so that the computers could “speak” to each other in a language they understand. For instance, if the facility in Beijing operated on an Apple system and the facilities in London and St. Louis operated on a different operating system using different file extensions, the computer information system could not be shared due to incompatibility.

Thus, at the simplest level, concurrent architecture is defined as a computer design wherein all computers can work collaboratively together without problems or delays.