Monitoring performance-related QoS properties in service-oriented systems: a pattern-based architectural decision model

In service-oriented systems, service-level agreements (SLA) are specified as contracts between service providers and service consumers. SLAs stipulate --- among other things --- the provided services' performance. A service provider must fulfill the agreements stated in SLAs, e.g., to avoid paying penalties. Service consumers must verify whether the service quality as purchased is delivered. We present an architectural design decision model (ADDM) covering the design of a QoS monitoring infrastructure. The ADDM collects design decisions about measuring, storing, and evaluating performance-related quality-of-service (QoS) agreements. The model includes various requirements and puts forth design solutions by referring to established architectural, remoting, and design patterns. We evaluate the ADDM to build the architecture of a QoS monitoring infrastructure in a case study. The model guides through the decision-making process of designing a QoS monitoring infrastructure.