>So I guess what I am saying is that it's easier to design and implement an n-tier system when you have a fully matured, automated business process ...which usually starts as a simple monolithic app that evolves over some time.

I don't agree. n-Tier is something that sits at a lower level. Yes it definitely helps to break out the bussiness logic, but the key to n-Tier in my eyes is the architecture which is more on a framework level. The business logic just falls into that more or less...

+++ Rick ---