Multi-tier

IFS Applications Architecture is a multi-tier architecture. Each tier has its own job to do and does it in a standard way with a clear separation from, and interface to, other tiers. Each tier has its own software objects. These are all derived from a common design model but are implemented using different technologies to suit their purpose.

IFS Applications Architecture is divided in to three main tiers, with the business logic available through access providers to IFS user interfaces and custom interfaces.

The fully normalized data storage tier is based on the relational database model. This is the prevalent storage technology for today and the foreseeable future. The database server is configured so that no data can be accessed or modified except through the business logic. This guarantees data integrity and prevents "back-door" modification.

The business logic tier is the heart of the application. It implements business knowledge, functionality, and processes. This tier is divided into two sub tiers. The application core sub tier is a high-performance, object-oriented implementation of business-object level and activity-level business logic. The composite services layer is a service-oriented interface and API used for integrations, client access, and process level logic.

The presentation tier provides interaction with human users and client-side applications and devices. The same business logic can serve many different types of interfaces, such as web browsers, PDAs, and PCs. Interfaces in the presentation tier access the functionality of the business logic tier through access providers. Storage Business Logic Presentation