Service-oriented architectures (SOA) are a type of technology that helps businesses organize and use their services more efficiently. By using SOA, companies can better integrate their different departments and work together more smoothly. This technology is especially useful for virtual enterprises, where businesses collaborate online. SOA also helps with creating and managing business processes. One important tool in this area is the Business Process Execution Language (BPEL). Another key aspect is the use of messaging protocols like the Enterprise Service Bus (ESB). Overall, SOA is a modern approach that can improve how businesses are structured and how they work together.