By Todd M. Thomas
Chapter 1: Introducing Java Data Access Development
In This Chapter
In This Chapter
- Understanding how enterprises use and store data
- Using the Java technologies for accessing the different enterprise data stores
Now more than ever, Java developers need to understand how to create data− centric applications. Data is an important commodity and organizations now try to capture, store, and analyze all the information they generate. As a result, many different forms of data exist and an equal number of different methods exist to store it. As a Java developer, you will likely face the challenge of writing an application that enables an organization to effectively use its data stored in either a single source or multiple sources.
Your chances of having to build an application that accesses enterprise data increase because Java continues to gain market share as the language of choice for creating server applications and the J2EE platform become increasingly popular. In addition, most server applications require access to data stores for information. As an example, an EJB component may need to update inventory levels in a database or send XML messages to other applications. As a result, your knowing how to access the different data stores is paramount in enterprise development.
However, client applications also need access to enterprise data stores. For example, a human−resources application that tracks employee vacation time must retrieve and store information from a database. In addition, you now have mobile clients that need access to enterprise data stores. Writing data−centric applications for these devices is challenging, as they operate with little memory, minimal processor speeds, limited power supplies, and intermittent network access.
Fortunately, Java provides a robust set of data−access technologies that enables you to access the most common types of enterprise data. Using these same technologies you can create both server−side components and client−side applications. The technologies consist of APIs for accessing databases, naming and directory services, and XML documents.
This chapter introduces the most common types of data enterprises used in their operations, from simple text files to complex specialty databases. This chapter also covers the various Java−based technologies that you can use to access the data stores.
Taking Stock of Enterprise Data Stores
As you know, enterprises rely on data to make business decisions, generate revenue, and run daily operations. For example, managers generate sales forecasts based on historical sales data stored in a data warehouse. Companies also build online stores using live inventory levels that sell directly to their customers. Accounting departments use financial database applications to generate payroll checks and track accounts receivables. These are only a few examples of how enterprises use data.
For Download:
Your chances of having to build an application that accesses enterprise data increase because Java continues to gain market share as the language of choice for creating server applications and the J2EE platform become increasingly popular. In addition, most server applications require access to data stores for information. As an example, an EJB component may need to update inventory levels in a database or send XML messages to other applications. As a result, your knowing how to access the different data stores is paramount in enterprise development.
However, client applications also need access to enterprise data stores. For example, a human−resources application that tracks employee vacation time must retrieve and store information from a database. In addition, you now have mobile clients that need access to enterprise data stores. Writing data−centric applications for these devices is challenging, as they operate with little memory, minimal processor speeds, limited power supplies, and intermittent network access.
Fortunately, Java provides a robust set of data−access technologies that enables you to access the most common types of enterprise data. Using these same technologies you can create both server−side components and client−side applications. The technologies consist of APIs for accessing databases, naming and directory services, and XML documents.
This chapter introduces the most common types of data enterprises used in their operations, from simple text files to complex specialty databases. This chapter also covers the various Java−based technologies that you can use to access the data stores.
Taking Stock of Enterprise Data Stores
As you know, enterprises rely on data to make business decisions, generate revenue, and run daily operations. For example, managers generate sales forecasts based on historical sales data stored in a data warehouse. Companies also build online stores using live inventory levels that sell directly to their customers. Accounting departments use financial database applications to generate payroll checks and track accounts receivables. These are only a few examples of how enterprises use data.
For Download:
