Developer tools: Improving Java productivity through automation

With Java adoption accelerating in the business world, there is considerable demand for software developers proficient in the language. Ben van Niekerk, product manager at Compuware Corporation, says that particularly in large companies, a dual strategy for software application platforms, encompassing both Java and Microsoft's .NET, is followed.

"Typically, companies leverage the advantages of both platforms, for example using .NET for the presentation layer and Java for the back end business logic layer," he says.

Jan Bank, Netherlands-based product manager of Application Development and Integration products for Compuware, adds: "There is a great deal of momentum around Java, with the result that there is pressure on Java developers to increase their productivity," he says.

Specific challenges faced by Java developers include an overload from both the technology and business perspectives, continues Bank. He explains: "Technologies don't operate in isolation, so the Java developer is compelled to understand a variety of standards, schemas, languages and platforms in order to produce effective applications. In addition to that, they have to understand the processes and logic for the line of business in which they are working."

Helping developers to become more productive, software programming tools have become more intelligent, assisting in the accurate creation of code. Says Bank: "Tools should really establish the basics so the developer can concentrate on the advanced features of software development. By introducing automation in a smart way - especially from an architectural point of view - and generating the bulk of the Java code, the developer is able to focus his skills on the specific business logic."

Adding to the productivity gains of automated code generation which removes the burden of time-consuming and perhaps dreary work, van Niekerk says the Java developer has access to supplementary quality assurance tools. "Quality is critical to the success of any application, but it is by definition a meticulous discipline; application experts who know what constitutes good quality are greatly aided with the availability of appropriate automated software testing tools that work in conjunction with code generation technologies," he says.

Van Niekerk adds that application quality is determined not only by its ability to perform according to the business specifications, but also the ease with which it can adjust to often dynamic environments. "Applications should be designed in such a way that they can be maintained with relative ease; business rules are subject to change, so good applications must be flexible to continue delivering value when the requirements are modified," he says.

With advances in developer tools, the productivity of Java programmers has been significantly aided, but Bank notes that this does not remove the necessity for good developers from the market. "Smart automation takes away a lot of the legwork, leaving the developer with the time to apply his or her mind. That gives businesses a more effective and more productive software development team," he concludes

Compuware Corporation

Compuware Corporation (NASDAQ: CPWR) is a world leader in delivering software and services that enable businesses to manage their enterprises and maximise the value of their IT assets. Compuware solutions accelerate the development, improve the quality and enhance the performance of business-driving applications. Founded in 1973, Compuware serves the world's leading IT organisations, including more than 90 per cent of the Fortune 100 companies.

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