Standardisation of computer coding is now a reality, with all the large players taking up the challenge, says Progress Software product readiness manager Pat Bonser.
"We now have standards. It has taken about 30 years, and they may not be the best in the world, but at least we have them. That is the important thing, and it is very exciting."
Until recently, vendors developed software in relative isolation, and initial early attempts at standardisation failed, says Bonser.
"Basically, most vendors had their own agenda. Not all of the specifications have been developed together, and are not all on the same level. Another problem is that we can`t always get standards right the first time, and can never tell which will be adopted in the long-term. Some standards simply die on the vine.
"But all the big players are on board now, which is why it is working. We are at a point where, no matter who wrote it, or what it was written on, it can be used. I think it is XML that has driven all of this."
It has taken about 30 years, and they may not be the best in the world, but at least we have them.
Pat Bonser, product readiness manager, Progress Software
In order to achieve standardisation, a number of initiatives had to be put in place. The establishment of standardised bodies played a key role in this, says Bonser. "The idea behind the groups was to create a profile of the standards required. The process was a bit slow, but all the major vendors were involved, so there was a high level of commitment."
Among the groups established, W3L played a key role in driving base level standards, while the WS-I was basically a group of big vendors joining together to implement standards across the board, says Bonser.
Although standardisation is now a reality, Bonser says development and maintenance will require continuous effort. "We need to look at what we have today, and how it can be used tomorrow. Things will evolve, and there must be minimal fuss in evolving the standards with it.
"We can have 100% interoperable standards, but what if the standards change? We must be able to take advantage of real new standards, but still be functional now.
"Standards and specifications are always evolving, so I don`t think we will ever achieve nirvana in this regard. You can already see specifications evolving in the market now."
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