¶ Layers of Interoperability in Fuse
In the eTag Fuse platform, the Layers of Interoperability form the architectural foundation that governs how execution happens across domains.
These four layers work together to power secure, explainable, and adaptive behavior across systems — enabling Fuse to operate as a true multi-domain interoperability platform.
Each layer solves a distinct problem:
| Layer | Description |
|---|---|
| Integration | Connect systems and move data across protocols and formats |
| Automation | Trigger logic based on events, rules, or schedules |
| Orchestration | Coordinate multi-step workflows and stateful processes |
| Interoperability | Govern context, tokens, and cross-domain composition |
These are not optional features. Every action in Fuse flows through one or more of these layers — ensuring composability, observability, and runtime policy enforcement by default.
¶ 1. Why Layers Matter
Most platforms treat integration, automation, and orchestration as isolated capabilities.
Fuse treats them as layered execution engines that power all runtime behavior. These layers ensure:
- Every domain participates with scoped access
- Every action is observable and auditable
- Every workflow is resilient, orchestrated, and governed
- Every decision is enforced through context and policy
These layers are not just part of the platform — they are the platform.
¶ 2. What Each Layer Enables
¶ 
Integration
- Enables system-to-system connectivity
- Uses connectors, adapters, and message transformers
- Supports structured formats (XML, JSON, CSV, EDI) and protocols (HTTP, FTP, WebSockets)
¶ 
Automation
- Executes logic on events, timers, or state changes
- Supports rule engines, condition matching, pipelines, and event flows
- Powers reactive behavior, scheduled tasks, and flow branching
¶ 
Orchestration
- Coordinates multi-step processes across systems, users, and domains
- Includes state management, approvals, retries, and compensation logic
- Supports long-running workflows and human-in-the-loop decisioning
¶ 
Interoperability
- Composes flows across domains with shared context
- Governs identity, token scope, and access enforcement
- Enables cross-domain policy execution and adaptive behavior
¶ 3. Layers vs. Domains
It’s essential to distinguish these two core concepts:
| Concept | Role in Fuse | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Layer | Governs how execution happens | Integration, Automation, Orchestration, Interoperability |
| Domain | Defines what interoperates or participates | Security, AI, UI, Messaging, Governance |
- Layers are the execution engine.
- Domains are the governed, composable capabilities.
Every domain action flows through one or more layers.
For a complete overview of how layers and domains work together:
¶ 4. Compare the Execution Layers
To better understand the role and differences between the layers in Fuse, view:
Interoperability Layer Comparison — A side-by-side breakdown of Integration, Automation, Orchestration, and Interoperability.
¶ 5. Explore Each Layer
Next: Domains of Interoperability — Learn how functional areas like AI, Security, and UI plug into these execution layers.