web programming

Not sure what this was all about, so I figured I would plunk down $40 for this book, and I'm glad I did. The book puts things into perspective for me, more so than other books I've read on the topic. Also, I thought the views were well balanced...down-to-earth...defining the ROI, as well as the technology.

It is a bit technical in places, but does not seem to talk too much above the heads of those that are less technical. The figures are helpful, however.

I've read the author's other books and found them very valuable, and this book is no different. This book does a great job in explaining how Web services fits into the world of EAI. I really liked the way the author approaches the topic, using practical applications and examples, where to use Web services, and where not to use Web services. Good information beyond the hype.

However, this is not just a Web services book. You'll find most of the information you'll need to run an EAI project (don?t ask me how I know that). The book does not dictate a static solutions, as do other Web service books, but allows you to find the right technology for the needs of your project.

Linthicum writes a comprehensive text for technology managers. The 500-page book describes the world of EAI in detail with an emphasis on web services. It covers the benefits and limitations of web services, provides examples of where to use and not use them, and introduces standards with an emphasis on XML. The book encourages IT to make the much-needed shift from an information to a service-orientation. As such, a considerable part of the book dedicated to emerging EAI styles, such as SOA (Service Oriented Architecture), which requires IT to think in business terms and promises to speed development and decrease integration time when correctly implemented. Coders and those looking for technical information on standards should look elsewhere. The book contains many diagrams that are crude but effective. The writing style is unrefined and repetitive. This can be overlooked if you're willing to skim through them.