Web Services are standardized software systems used for sharing functionalities over the internet, enabling interaction between software applications via web protocols. Coursera's Web Services catalogue equips you with the ability to design, implement, and manage web services, both RESTful and SOAP. You'll learn about various web service technologies including XML, JSON, WSDL, and UDDI. Plus, understand how to secure web services, handle service orchestration, and manage API integrations. By the end of your study, you will be well-versed in using web services for creating interoperable software applications that are platform-independent and scalable.