internet applications

This is one of the most elegantly written books I have ever read in my carreer. It explains the entire Web services technology in simple terms that even a novice can understand. I especially liked the author's discussion on the hype around Web services spread by vendors. She also provides interesting discussion of both early failures (Hershey) and successes (Amazon, Google, UPS) of organizations that explored Web services that, by necessity, have to address enterprise application integration--especially with legacy applications.

Anne also gives in detail an impartial and objective evaluation of .NET vs. Java that is very enlightening and forever puts to rest the silly question folks keeps asking: "Do I choose Java or .NET?" Dude, the answer is "YES." And, can you say, "Interoperability" and "Peaceful Coexistence"?

Finally, I would love to see Anne to write a book providing an in-depth and competitive analysis of IBM WebSphere, Microsoft .NET, and Sun ONE.

I have been involved into web services technology for a while. When I picked this book...expected an unbiased high-level outlook on Web services. But it does not help at all...the author is more biased to define all of the pieces of web services technology. With that said, this was a difficult book to read because the writing style is very abrupt, does not flow, and reads like an product brochure trying to impress some vendor and confuse others. I've read more high-level technical books that were easier to understand because they explain their subjects in more natural prose.

I am so glad that this is the first book that I chose to read on Web Services. In our ever-changing world of IT, new technology and new terms pass by at dizzying speeds. We latch onto some and let others go in our attempt to stay current and relevant. The area of integration will be foundational for the new business models of the 21st century and Web Services is at the starting blocks to making it happen. As a technologist for one of the main players in IT Consulting & Services, I was looking for an unbiased (non company-oriented) and comprehensive view of the components, applications and issues surrounding Web Services. I found it in this book. Like one of the other reviewers, this was one of the most enjoyable business technology books that I have read and it exceeded my expectations. I also agree with the comment that this book should not be limited to managers. Even those who work deep in the details need to have a good understanding of the big picture from a business viewpoint to create the kind of value required. My thanks to Addison-Wesley and Anne Thomas Manes.