A method is provided for creating a Universally Unique Identifier (UUID) for a web service. The UUID is stored in service metadata associated with the web service. The UUID can then be used to track services and correlate service information between multiple systems. In accordance with an embodiment, a method is provided for publishing Universal Description Discovery and Integration (UDDI) service information from a metadata repository to a service registry. In accordance with an embodiment, a method is provided for receiving Universal Description Discovery and Integration (UDDI) service information from a service registry into a metadata repository.