Web services: Description, interfaces, and ontology

Abstract

In this chapter, we would like to draw a comparison between SemanticWeb andWeb Services, in the hope that such a comparison will shed light on each and help us understand the directions of their evolution. Both Semantic Web and Web Services are young, rapidly changing technologies that overlap in significant ways. A better understanding on how they are similar and where they differ may add clarity to their development and mutual accommodation. If, as we believe is the case, they have complementary strengths and weaknesses, theirmutual understanding can be of help to both. Since the publication of the first edition, the underpinnings of Web Services technology have changed slightly, but the available SemanticWeb technology has changed a great deal. This chapter will therefore change mostly in those sections that indicate the areas ofWeb Services that dovetail with SemanticWeb languages and tools. We start with a high-level juxtaposition drawn in broad strokes, unavoidably inaccurate in small details. Small details will follow soon thereafter.