To understand why this is the case, let’s unpick the main advantages of federated architecture, and how they apply to startups.

Understanding the basics

Simply put, a federated architecture pattern is one which enables separate systems and applications to work alongside one another, while still giving them a degree of autonomy.

While there may be overarching models by which information is shared and distributed within this infrastructure, its distinct components are organised without the need for complete unity and centralisation.

It is no accident that the term federated architecture reflects the structure of the federal government, relating the top-level control that this represents to the states that make up the US and have their own roles, rules and powers while still being part of a whole.

Independent problem solving

The independence of tools and resources in a federated architecture is primarily appealing because it allows for problems to be tackled by distinct entities in whatever way makes the most sense for them.

This could mean a particular tool is put to work on a challenge that a startup faces, or it could mean that a distinct team within the organisation is empowered to deal with a dilemma independently, while still adhering to the core principles and best practices which apply across the company.

Scalability

Another string to the bow of federated architecture is that it enables each system and component to scale separately. This gives startups an extra degree of flexibility, while also delivering affordability in one fell swoop.

So if a particular application, team or project needs to scale rapidly, this can be achieved without it also requiring other aspects of the architecture to expand or contract in tandem.

It is worth noting that federated architecture is more normally talked about as a benefit for larger organisations with a broader array of resources to wrangle. However, the scalability does mean that even smaller firms should take notice.

Interoperability

Businesses of all sizes are reliant on a raft of different technologies today, and this can lead to a stifling level of fragmentation if they are not properly orchestrated. In turn this will perpetuate system complexity, confound efforts of team members to collaborate with colleagues, and result in general messiness which increases costs.

Federated architecture seeks to solve this through a cohesive framework for information exchange that delivers interoperability at a core level, without compromising on that all-important independence that we discussed earlier.

Integration

This goes hand in hand with the question of interoperability, as integration requirements have to be considered by startups, since they will likely need to embrace new system assets and solutions over time.

Being able to fall back on a standardised approach to information exchange, while still allowing autonomous operation, means that there is a clear road map to follow whenever it is necessary to integrate and expand the system architecture.

APIs are of course helpful in this respect, and they themselves can be organised in a federated way, which helps startups double down on delivering on their goals of federated architecture.

Security

Another concern that arises from fragmentation is that of security. If disparate systems, apps, networks and other assets are in use, then each one could represent a point of vulnerability, and managing risks is exponentially more difficult.

Through federated system architecture, these risks are minimised, again thanks to the standardisation of information exchange that is part and parcel of such a strategy.

While the cyber threats themselves will persist, a startup can put up a united front against them, assessing vulnerabilities, adhering to regulations, responding to breaches and cataloging assets without being overwhelmed by the scope of the infrastructure.

Governance

We have already touched on some aspects of this, but when system architecture is federated, overseeing it and making top-level decisions from an informed perspective is less of a strain.

Startups are especially well positioned to reap the benefits of streamlined governance, because lessening the likelihood of compliance issues arising, and embracing accountability as soon as possible, will lead to growth and prosperity in the long term.

Final thoughts

The rise of federated architecture for established businesses and startups alike is not all that surprising when you understand its benefits, and also when you accept that there is little alternative in the modern, digital-driven age.

Organisations need a plan for piloting the tech tools on which they are reliant, as without one the complexity can quickly spiral. Federation of system architecture is the best answer in most cases, and even if your startup is not ready to embrace it today, it is wise to learn more about it in preparation.