Hiring the phantom Java architect
Unlike other programming languages, Java—because of its broad scope—has caused more functions, responsibilities, and expectations to be tacked on to job requirements, in particular, to the responsibilities of a Java architect. Java job requirements written by IT managers and HR departments are starting to look more like a wish list than an IT skill set. Companies are eternally trying to fill the phantom Java architect position. But do IT managers really know who or what they are looking for? Moreover, do they know what a Java architect is supposed to bring to their organization? Learning how to clearly define the role of an architect would benefit both IT companies and the Java workforce by establishing realistic expectations and job requirements. (1,000 words; May 9, 2005)
Al Smith Jr., May 2005

Get the inside track on J2EE architect certification
The Sun Microsystems Certified Enterprise Architect for J2EE (Java 2 Platform, Enterprise Edition) Technology exam represents the culmination of the Sun certification stack for Java technology. However, the value of formal certifications has always been questioned by the Java community and by the larger software engineering community. What does the exam buy you? In this article, Humphrey Sheil examines the pros and cons of pursuing J2EE architect certification and dispels common misconceptions about both the exam and its associated certification. Throughout the article, Mark Cade, lead developer responsible for Sun's J2EE architect exam, provides insider commentary. Sheil also gives tips on how to prepare for the exam, specifically the practical assignment portion. Last but not least, Sheil presents a sneak peek into some likely features for the exam's later iterations and offers you the opportunity for input on future exams.
Humphrey Sheil, December 2002

Java jobs easy to find; skills hard to come by
Analysts predict that demand for Java programmers will continue to grow at an impressive rate, led by Java's cross-platform and productivity features. Java, however, may be a victim of its own success as training bottlenecks raise costs and lower quality. (1,000 words)
Christie Vincent and Itworld.com, August 2001

Study hall
I recently became a Sun Certified Java Programmer. I'm now interested in taking my developer exams, and I'm looking for some guidance. As someone who has completed the developer certification, what books and Websites do you suggest using to prepare for the exam?
Tony Sintes, July 2001

Certification help

Tony Sintes, March 2000

The real future of Java
Many among us seek to predict where Java will take us as we transition into the next millennium. Java Evangelist Miko Matsumura makes the case that the future lies in the hands of children and their education. He explains that in addition to Java's use in computer science education, it is also useful as a substrate for collaborative workgroups, distance learning, multimedia, and computer-based training. (1,850 words)
Miko Matsumura, January 1998

The pros and cons of the new Java
JavaOne was an excellent source for up-to-the-minute information on what Java is and what it will be. Sun Microsystems and its JavaSoft division have made some pretty good progress during the past year (since the last JavaOne in May '96). JavaSoft has kept many promises, delayed a few, and promised some more. The technology sounds great. But there are some indications that JavaSoft is looking for ways to make more money, and maintain firm control over Java. Could this end up costing developers and end users someday? (2,250 words)
Rich Kadel, May 1997

Internet World: Microsoft, Sun dispute invitation to join pure Java
Boston (December 12, 1996) - Microsoft Corp. claims Sun Microsystems Inc. did not invite it to join the 100% Pure Java campaign, but Sun officials claim that's not true.
Sari Kalin, January 1997

Java undergoes purification ritual at Internet World
New York -- In conjunction with Apple Computer, IBM Corp., Netscape Communications Corp., and Oracle Corp., along with the explicit backing of over 100 independent software development firms, Sun Microsystems yesterday unveiled its new "100% Pure Java" program. The announcement, held on the first day of Mecklermedia's busy Fall Internet World show, came in a caffeine burst of corporate partnering apparently brought on by recent moves from Microsoft Corp. to undermine the integrity of Sun's heretofore open Java development specifications.
Kieron Murphy, January 1997

Java -- Cappuccino for the corporate programmer?
Sure, Java is all the rage among technical entrepreneurs. But is it a good technology choice for corporate applications? Our expert says yes -- where network computing is critical, Java will make tremendous inroads in corporate programming.
Frank Greco, May 1996

What is Java? A 10 minute guide for the uninitiated
Since you're reading JavaWorld, you probably already realize the significance of Sun's new programming language. But since Java is still relatively new, we expect many of you are still learning about Java. Even if you know all, you may need to inform your boss/partner/friend/CIO/client about the merits and potential benefits of Sun's revolutionary new programming language, so here's the article to share with your non-programmer associates to help them quickly and easily understand the basic concepts of Java and its far-reaching impact. (1,500 words)
Peter Kestenbaum, March 1996

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