Parallel versus serial message processing in WebSphere MQ adapter

MQSeries adapter can process inbound messages in two ways: serially or in parallel. Serial processing means that each message is put in a line, or queue, and handled one after another. In this method, each message must wait until processing of the previous message is complete. Parallel processing on the other hand, means that a number of messages can be processed at the same time. Instead of each message having to wait for the previous one to be completed, many of them can be run simultaneously.

Although parallel processing generally results in faster throughput, it is not suitable for all types of requests. There are some situations in which the serial nature of the transactions must be preserved. For example, if a new customer registers at your store, then makes a correction to their address information, then makes a purchase order, you would want the order of these transactions to be preserved when processing them. You could not perform the address modification or the purchase order unless the account had already been created. Likewise, you would not want to fulfill a purchase order without having the correct shipping information.

Although it is generally preferable to use parallel processing where possible, you will have to decide where it is appropriate to use this method on your data.