HOLAGENT SMARTOBJECTS
DESCRIPTION
Holagent purchased the rights to Project Management software written in Smalltalk and backed by a GemStone/S database repository. The software had a reputation as best in class for functionality, but ranked low for usability. Users of the software included large systems engineering firms such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and the United States Department of Defense. Holagent came to JWay to replace their Smalltalk software with a series of “thin” clients with improved usability that they could license and sell separately.
Along with a much-needed User Interface redesign to give their software a modern Windows-like look, JWay strongly recommended that Holagent began moving to Java as part of a long-term strategy to phase out their dependence on technologies and languages that were in danger of becoming obsolete. Holagent agreed, and the process began with development of the first few thin Java clients.
OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT
The stated objectives of the Holagent SmartObjects project were:
- To replace the Smalltalk client with a series of thin Java clients related to a Java middle tier architecture
- To organize functionality into logical process groupings
- To create an internationalized User Interface design in Java based on established Windows best practices
- To simplify complex input screens and data manipulation commands
JWay’ SOLUTION
To meet the project objectives, JWay accomplished the following:
- Conducted Target User analysis and Usability testing
- Created and documented Use Cases in cooperation with the client to define functional, non-functional and system requirements
- Architected and implemented the middle tier in Java
- Designed, built, and tested the thin clients using Java Swing for GUIs
- Provided Project Management to:
- Ensure project implementation consistent with specifications, requirements and budget constraints
- Define strategy, provide technical support and direction
- Drive Use Case analysis and Target User analysis
- Expedite communications
RESULTS
SmartObjects was re-introduced, notably in Australia, providing a greatly improved user experience. At the same time, the risk of the product’s dependency on technologies and language in danger of obsolescence was eliminated. Delivery included:
- Best practices in User Interface design through use of Windows-like panels
- Iconography design
- Logical parceling of functionality
- Internationalized UI
- Stable middle tier client architecture
- Eliminated risk of the product dependency on obsolete technologies/language
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Thin Java clients
- Java middle tier using GemBuilder for Java to interact with GemStone/S repository
- PostGres database for middle tier
- Integrated installation using InstallAnywhere
- Licensing integration with FlexLM
- Internationalization through TMX (Translation Memory Exchange)
