A smart node is integrated with each Web service in a Web service
application chain to automatically supply compatible features, missing
functionality, and orchestration of the processes in the application,
without coordination by an orchestration engine, in an embodiment. A
smart node is a software program that systematically specifies the
communications dimensions, functionality, and orchestration required for
interoperability among Web services. The communications parameters,
backup functionality, and process orchestration required for the Web
services in a Web service application may be predetermined and programmed
into smart nodes. The smart nodes are subsequently integrated with the
Web services in a Web service application so that communications among
the Web services occur first through the smart nodes. The smart nodes can
thus supply communications parameters, any missing functionality, and
dynamic process orchestration based on the current event context of the
Web service application. A smart node further enables a Web service to
supply different functionality in different contexts.