Stovepipes are “systems procured and developed to solve a specific problem, characterized by a limited focus and functionality, and containing data that cannot be easily shared with other systems.” (definition by DOE 1999). Stovepipe system is a legacy system that is an assemblage of inter-related elements that are so tightly bound together that the individual elements cannot be differentiated, upgraded or refactored. Stovepipe systems are isolated islands of information, which can't be easily connected to other system for easy sharing of information and increased system efficiency. Complex interfaces, tightly coupled systems, insufficient knowledge about a domain while designing the software, Or, the choice to use a vendor’s product and subsequent Vendor Lock-in can lead to Stovepipe Systems.

Analogy: Like the CBI, Raw, Military Intelligence, etc. all are government stovepipe systems, with little or no information sharing regarding terrorists and their attack plans, making the country safe heaven for terrorists.

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