IBM has unveiled development tools intended to boost the
IBM Workplace collaboration platform.
The tools will suit different classes of developers, from
experienced programmers to business managers, according to the
company. Users can build customised business applications to meet
business or vertical industry needs. Existing applications can be
extended to devices for mobile field personnel.
Tools for IBM Workplace will be part of the IBM Software
Development Platform, which will help Workplace customers use
industry standards and technology frameworks for building
applications with tools integrated with each other.
IBM’s Workplace Client Technology allows for deployment of
applications to “server-managed client devices”, including
desktops, laptops, mobile phones, and PDAs, said Angus Mcintyre,
programme director for client Technologies at the IBM Pervasive
Computing group. Key to IBM’s software development platform is use
of the Eclipse IDE.
The Workplace portfolio will be expanded to include the
following:
- WebSphere Studio Device Developer 5.7, featuring new tools for
mobile client devices. Users will be able to run Java-based
applications on laptops and PCs and develop Workplace applications
for mobile phones, smart phones, and other wireless devices. New
features include life cycle management and extension services that
allow an application to run in both connected and disconnected
environments.
- Workplace Builder, intended for those with limited expertise in
application development. Featured are reusable components for
assembly into applications on the Workplace platform. Workplace
Builder is to be part of Lotus Workplace product offerings, due in
the third quarter of this year.
- Workplace API Toolkit, for ISVs, business partners, and
customers for integrating with the Workplace platform. The toolkit
includes sample code, documentation, APIs, and service provider
interfaces. For use with WebSphere Studio, developers can use the
toolkit to build components for devices or use collaborative
functions such as sending mail or instant messages as web services
from within their business applications. The first toolkit will be
available in the third quarter of 2005. A follow-up release will
include a Workplace Client toolkit.
- Workplace Designer, for complex applications. This tool
provides a visual, enterprise-level scripting tool for building
standalone applications or to complement applications built with
Workplace Builder. Workplace Designer is more advanced than
Workplace Builder but less advanced than WebSphere Studio; it will
help customers with experience using IBM Lotus Domino Designer use
existing skills, IBM said. It is set to ship in a beta release
later this year.
Additionally, IBM will enhance support for IBM Workplace Client
Technology within its developerWorks program and IBM Innovation
Centers. Developers will be provided with tools, code, and
education to build wireless, device-led applications for IBM
Workplace Client Technology, Rich Edition.
IBM will also extend its PartnerWorld Industry Networks for ISVs
program, in which the company partners with ISVs to meet specific
industry needs. Industries expected to be added include automotive,
education, electronics, and consumer packaged goods. Industries
currently covered in the program are insurance, retail, banking,
financial markets, life science and health care, and
telecommunications.
Paul Krillwrites for Infoworld