Seamlessly connect automation tools, business processes and data sources

Service Orchestration and Automation Platforms (SOAPs) are tools designed to automate and manage complex IT processes. They integrate various IT systems, applications and services, enabling seamless communication and task execution. These platforms provide a unified interface to automate workflows, manage dependencies and streamline operations across diverse environments, including on-premises, cloud and hybrid infrastructures. Key functionalities often include API integration, workload automation and managed file transfer, facilitating efficient IT service delivery and digital transformation.

SOAPs are essential for IT operations, as they enhance the coordination of automation tasks across multiple systems and applications. They support automation strategies by providing tools to manage ETL processes, digital infrastructure and DevOps initiatives. They also enable I&O leaders to achieve cost savings and improve operational efficiency. By leveraging SOAPs, organizations can ensure that their IT processes are aligned with business services, promoting agility and customer-focused innovation.

Learn more about SOAPs and how they help support business agility and digital innovation.

Automation refers to the execution of individual tasks without human intervention. It involves using tools and scripts to perform specific actions, such as running a script to back up data or deploying a software update. Automation focuses on repetitive, single-purpose tasks, ensuring they are completed efficiently and accurately within IT environments.

On the other hand, orchestration involves coordinating and managing multiple automated tasks to achieve a broader objective. It is about integrating various automation tasks across different systems and applications to create a cohesive workflow. For example, orchestration tools can automate the entire lifecycle of a business process, from initiating data transfers between cloud-native infrastructure and data centers to executing machine learning models and updating databases. This holistic approach enhances IT operations and supports digital business initiatives by providing a unified view and control over complex processes.

Read about workflow orchestration and automation and how to modernize batch processing.

An orchestration platform is a tool designed to coordinate and manage complex IT processes across various systems and applications. It integrates multiple automation tasks, enabling them to work together in a cohesive workflow. These platforms are essential for handling diverse IT environments, including cloud, on-premises and hybrid infrastructures, by providing a unified interface for managing and automating workflows.

Orchestration platforms support IT automation by ensuring that different components work in sync, such as AWS, big data applications and operating systems. They help infrastructure and operations teams optimize resources, improve efficiency and achieve customer-focused agility. Everyday use cases include automating business processes, managing dependencies in data workflows and supporting workload automation solutions. These platforms are integral to modern IT strategies, aligning with recommendations found in resources like the Gartner Market Guide for Service Orchestration and Automation Platforms.

Learn about Gartner’s workload automation trends and how they compare to today’s landscape.