Python Rocks! and other rants 21.4.2004

PetShop.NET: An Anti-Pattern Architecture

This one is interesting because it contrasts an (IMO) overweight J2EE architecture (Sun's Java PetStore) with an under-architected solution (Microsoft's PetShop.NET). The author has an extreme bias towards very heavy architecture - there are as many packages in Java PetStore as there are classes in PetShop.NET! I think the PetStore architecture is an example of architecture for the sake of architecture, and the author approves. In his conclusion he says, "DotNetGuru is completely rewriting the PetShop.NET, with the intent of implementing a true N-tier architecture based on an agile design. This means that we will provide an implementation that would let the user choosing his best architecture by using Abstract Factory pattern between all the layers. It will be possible to use Remoting/WebService/Local calls in the service layer and real O/R Mapping tool or DAO in the Data tier just by changing configuration file." Yikes! Agile development anyone?

James Turner writes, Why Do Java Developers Like to Make Things So Hard?. The above article is a great example of what he is talking about.

I actually agree with many of the criticisms in the PetStore article, but I think his cure is as bad as the disease. There is a middle way, agile methods will take you there!

The Way You Develop Web Applications May Be Wrong

In this article Anthony Eden argues for an extremely lightweight style of web application development. The comments debate various alternatives.

Simplifying Web Development: Jython, Spring and Velocity

Two of my favorites plus a new interest...what's not to like? :-) There is a link to a good presentation about Spring.