Java Reference
In-Depth Information
CHAPTER 2
Simplifying Enterprise Java
Applications with the Spring
Framework
T
he first chapter of this topic discussed the fundamental principles of Java EE applica-
tion architecture and design. In this chapter, I will show how these concepts apply to the
Spring Framework. I will begin with a brief overview of Spring and its importance as an
application framework. Then, I'll cover the building blocks that make up this framework,
and in the process you will see the framework in action. After you understand the under-
lying principles of the Spring Framework, I will discuss its role in enterprise Java
application architecture and design. Finally, I will wind up this chapter with the Spring
Java design pattern directive that will be used in the next three chapters of this topic. If
you are interested in running the code in this chapter, then jump to Chapter 7, which
provides step-by-step instructions for setting up Eclipse-based Blazon ezJEE Studio with
the Spring Framework plug-in. It also shows you how to create the sample project struc-
ture required to develop and run these examples.
What Is Spring?
The Spring Framework is an open source application framework initially aimed at the
Java platform. It has recently been ported to the .NET platform as well. The idea and code
for this framework were first described by Rod Johnson in his book
Expert One-on-One
J2EE Design and Development
(Wrox, 2002). This framework was the outcome of Rod's
extensive project experience working as an independent software consultant for financial
sector customers in the United Kingdom.
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