In multi-sourced operating environments services are provided using a combination of people, processes and technologies from a number of organizations, each with a range of contractual obligations and potentially different capabilities to deliver value. One way to address this challenge is through establishing an international standards based, discrete Service Integration and Management system.

An effective SIAM system enables organizations to take advantage of the opportunity and flexibility of multi-sourcing to deliver integrated services to business units and their customers while ensuring good governance, operational management, risk management and regulatory compliance. SIAM requires the planning, design, implementation, operation, monitoring and improvement of services, processes, controls and service providers. It requires the ability to enable service delivery, prompt detection of service events and quick response to service incidents. Operational targets must be set in the context of SIAM policy, service objectives, management obligations and alignment with the core values, objectives and strategic direction of the organization and its customers.

The main goal of Service Integration and Management is to coordinate internal and external suppliers and their services in a cost-effective way to achieve the end-to-end service levels needed to support the goals of the business functions.