BEA and IBM have proposed specifications for a common Java programming model, a work manager and a timer that are capable of working across the competing WebLogic and WebSphere application servers.
The specifications will be submitted to the Java Community Process (JCP) for ratification as Java 2 Enterprise Edition (J2EE) APIs.
If adopted and ratified by the JCP, the specifications could provide for a higher degree of application portability across J2EE application servers form other Java vendors.
BEA and IBM have acted following pressure from ISVs like Siebel Systems Inc [SEBL], who must tweak their own software to fully exploit the unique capabilities of separate application servers.
Pressure to take action would be particularly heavy on BEA and IBM, as they lead the J2EE application server market.
While the official J2EE standards set a baseline of functionality, many vendors install additional Java APIs or embed their own features to boost performance or improve security.
Application server vendors justified such actions in the spirit of innovation others believe it is simply an attempt to lock-in developers, customers and ISVs to each vendors’ J2EE.
However, application server deployments scenarios are now changing, forcing rivals to increase their level of common functionality for improved portability of applications.
BEA and IBM are planning APIs for an application server timer, work manager and programming – features handled differently by the competing WebLogic and WebSphere.
This article was based on material originally published by ComputerWire.
