Abstract
Economic factors and developments of information and communication technologies have forced SMEs to engage in new organizational structures. The emergent process oriented collaborative networks require integration between distributed and heterogeneous infrastructures. The aim of this article is to present the approach for business process integration and management developed for the footwear sector within the scope of an EU project. Lessons learned and an agenda for future research work are then described. A brief overview of relevant enabling technologies is also made.

Abstract
E-business has emerged as a key enabler for information integration and interoperability in collaborative networks. This paper presents a service-oriented approach towards creating an ICT platform for the footwear industry, which has been tested for specific business scenarios and answers industry requirements. Other related works are discussed and analyzed, emphasizing the innovative aspects and advantages of this initiative.

Abstract
The Digital Business Ecosystem paradigm emerged worldwide as an approach supporting the adoption and development of interoperable infrastructures among SMEs, supporting them to achieve their goals efficiently. The aim of this article is to present a novel three-layered approach towards the creation of a digital business ecosystem for the shoe manufacturing domain, following ebXML scenario and framework, and using open-source software. Relevant related works are also discussed, emphasizing the innovative aspects and advantages of this novel approach.

Abstract
This paper describes an order planning system for dynamic supply chains, addressing the requirements of a make-to-order business environment. A distributed and decentralized information system based on an architecture of agents and extensively using the internet was designed and implemented, so as to enable new and more powerful decision support. The system aims at responding to the basic requirements of cooperativeness, integration and configurability. It was developed under the scope of the IST European Project Co-OPERATE and implements the functionality defined in the context of the 'request feasibility studies for the network' (ReFS) business solution.

Abstract
Several e-business frameworks are currently available, which are aimed at modelling e-business. The aim of this article is to analyse and compare relevant industry-neutral and industry-specific e-business frameworks currently in use, emphasising their strengths and weaknesses towards seamless interoperability in a collaborative networked environment. Their main differences and similarities are underlined based on an analytical model for e-business frameworks comparison. The applicability of the Analytic Hierarchy Process multi-criteria method in e-business frameworks selection is discussed. These analytical approaches are then illustrated with two real cases from industry.

Abstract
The advances in information and communication technologies and economic factors impelled organizations to engage in new forms of collaboration, such as collaborative networks. They require adequate frameworks, architectures, tools and platforms to support interoperability among heterogeneous and geographically distributed organizations. Despite the high number of research projects in this area, existing tools and infrastructures, this objective has not been totally achieved. The aim of this research work is to advance the research in the area of interoperability in collaborative networks. A conceptual framework towards seamless interoperability in a collaborative-competitive economic networked environment is described, which comprises six elements: (1) a messaging service: (2) a collaboration profile/agreement definition and management service; (3) five clusters of collaborative activities: (4) a centralized repository; (5) a set of business documents and a set of contracting documents; (6) a performance assessment service. The functionality of the conceptual framework proposed is illustrated with a real implementation case targeting the footwear industry. The proposed conceptual framework is then compared with relevant e-business frameworks.