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
The goal of achieving full interoperability is still not achieved, despite the high number of tools and infrastructures developed. The objective of this article is to present a framework aiming at supporting seamless interoperability in a business collaborative networked environment. An implementation example from the footwear sector validating the framework proposed is also described.

Abstract
A virtual enterprise (VE) is a temporary organization that pools member enteiprises core competencies and exploits fast changing market opportunities Partner selection can be viewed as a multi-criteria decision making problem that involves, assessing trade-offs between conflicting tangible and intangible criteria, and stating preferences based on incomplete or non-available information. In general, this is a very complex problem due to the large number of alternatives and criteria of different types. In this paper we propose an integrated approach to rank alternative VE configurations using an extension of the TOPSIS method for fuzzy data, improved through the use of a tabu search meta-heuristic. Preliminary computational results clearly demonstrate its potential for practical application.

Abstract
This paper underlines the necessity of developing a framework supported by methodologies and concepts that make it possible to provide instances of the network's global performance management system in collaborative networks, and to simultaneously lead to the necessary alignment of all participants. We propose a way to identify and suggest the requirements to develop a framework that can support a dynamic Performance Management System efficiently through a conceptual schema that enables the implementation.