Michael Shoffner
When many people think of Java, they think of window dressing for Web pages. However, new client/server Web-based programs written in Java have a strong business focus.
BulletProof's WallStreetWeb (
http://www.bulletproof.com/wallstreetweb/
), a portfolio management tool, lets subscribers monitor and track their stock holdings in real time from any Java-enabled browser on the Net (
see the screen
). WallStreetWeb's integrated paging system can inform users of important portfolio changes. On-line help and stock searches a
re also available.
Java is well suited for distributed database administration and simple query access by outside users. One such Java intranet application is User Administrator from BulletProof (
http://www.bulletproof.com/admindemo/useradmin/
). Users and administrators access the same Java client but have different levels of access query and update privileges.
Another Java application, Connect's Issues (
http://www.connectcorp.com/
), provides cross-platform, on-line issue management services. Issues, which is searchable and navigable, is part of an enterprise syste
m that contains help desk and enterprise sales components. Each component has its own user interface and built-in functionality.
Java is also finding early use in the customer service sector. Prominence Dot Com's (
http://www.prominence.com/
) Web-based customer service system called Virtual Service Rep (VSR) integrates with databases to augment and partially automate Customer Service Representative (CSR) functions. When accessed, VSR authenticates the customer and attempts to provide automated assistance. You can configure VSR so that a human CSR need never be involved in routine ordering and service issues. If the customer's request requires human interaction, the request is priority-queued for CSR help. During the wait, VSR presents the customer with targeted products and services. Human CSRs can access a
customer's help-session history and account information, and VSR suggests a product or service for the CSR to offer the customer.
Many software developers are rushing to provide Java extensions to their applications. Dun & Bradstreet Software's Java client for its SmartStream system is an example. Expect to see more companies port their enterprise software to the corporate intranet.
Whether the network and other advantages will help the "dynamic" Webtop application supplant the "static" desktop application is still undetermined. However, these things are certain: Java is being extended, the language is rapidly maturing, and the potential applications for Java are practically endless.
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Java Business Applications Arrive
