Which integration service is characterized as an XML-based information exchange system?

The integration service that is characterized as an XML-based information exchange system is Web services. Web services utilize open standards and protocols to allow different applications, regardless of their individual architectures or technologies, to communicate with each other over a network. The XML format is critical in this process, as it allows for structured data interchange between the client and server, making it both human-readable and machine-processable.

Web services are particularly important in the context of insurance applications and the Guidewire Insurance Suite, as they enable seamless integration with various external systems, allowing for efficient data exchange. This is crucial for operations like policy management, claims processing, and customer relationship management, where real-time data access and interoperability are essential.

The other integration services mentioned, such as Messaging, Batch processes, and Startable plugins, serve different purposes. Messaging focuses on asynchronous communication between system components, Batch processes typically handle bulk data operations in scheduled intervals, and Startable plugins are more about customizing business logic within the application. None of these options primarily use XML as their foundational data exchange format, which is why Web services stands out as the correct answer.