Partitioning Adds a Middle Layer

Application partitioning defines the next generation of client/server tools, some analysts say. Sometimes referred to as a "three-tiered architecture," application partitioning adds a third component, the application server, between the client and the database server. Not only the data but portions of the application reside on a remote machine and are accessible by multiple workstations.

An important aspect of partitioning is remote automation--allowing a client program to execute remote procedures running on an application server. This can be achieved with OLE 2.0. Th e real benefit comes when OLE clients can communic ate with OLE servers on different machines.

Like a database server, an application server can maintain business logic in a central location and make it available to client applications. When business rules change, the server application can be modified without the need to distribute new client applications throughout the organization.

Delphi doesn't emphasize partitioning, but it provides equivalent functions and even offers sample applications. Application partitioning is also the centerpiece of new releases recently announced by Powersoft and Gupta (now called Centura).

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Adding a New Layer

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