We all know programming is a rigorous and difficult trade, that’s why those who do it (and do it well) are sought after in the marketplace. So why is it important to learn about Java, one of the simplest and most direct languages? Because simplicity of code makes for proficiency of development, especially if you’re interested in bridging gaps between in-house developers and a nearshore development team, or are looking to create web properties and apps that can be carried through multiple iterations.
Java was developed in the early 1990s by James Gosling and his team at Sun Microsystems. The goal in the development of the language can be summarized in the slogan: “write once, run anywhere.” And it still holds true today. Java uses an ‘object-oriented programming methodology’ (like Python and C++) which is meant to allow the same program to run on multiple operating systems regardless of its origin, and is set up to execute code from remote sources securely (you guessed it: ideal for those writing with or depending upon nearshore developer teams).
As said above, programming is a rigorous and difficult trade. So why do work that’s already been done for you? Especially if it’s available for use, free and clear? That’s where Java’s long history comes in handy: with so many solutions to coding needs available online and accessible for integration into your project at no cost to you, using Java can open up time and resources for your nearshore or in-house programming team to dedicate to other, more complicated, or more important projects: like developing things that have never been done before. Or improving upon things that’ll help your business stand out
Java has a unique feature that programmers and developers will recognize for its simplicity and helpfulness: automatic garbage collection. This means that programmers don’t have to write code which handles memory management when working with Java. In other words, when the process of running code creates “garbage,” Java automatically removes this technical detritus, so a programmer can avoid the hassle of either building a memory leak into their code, or writing more language which removes this leak preemptively. In Java, this capability is inherent to the language: it’s automatic and requires no special time or effort on the part of an in-house or nearshore programmer. It just is. What a treat, Java!
Javadoc is a feature of Java that will come in particularly handy when working across dispersed teams on one set of code. For many, this is the feature that helped catapult Java into the realm of a “must learn” language, rather than just another “good language to know.” So what is Javadoc? Basically, it’s an in-code commenting systems which allows programmers to include documentation to comment on and analyze the Java code as its written. Using Javadoc, nearshore programmers can make changes to code and document those changes so in-house team members won’t be left in the dark, and vice versa. Some applets even allow for this documentation to be done automatically. It’s a powerful feature that goes a long way to set Java apart..
We know Java has history (almost 30 years!), and we know it’s a well-built, well-supported, free and open-source language trusted by millions. But did you know that the millions that trust it also trust each other? That’s right, the last and perhaps final feature of Java that makes it an ideal language for your dispersed team is that Java comes with a thriving, supportive, and fiercely intelligent community which will ensure your nearshore and in-house teams are never stuck in a coding cul-de-sac with no way to turn around. Message boards, websites, wikis and more are all widely available and commonly used by Java programmers to ensure the entire community is getting better and using Java well. It’s an impressive feature to an already impressive language and could mean the difference between a successful Java launch, and a non-Java flop.
If your company is ready to enjoy the benefits of Java, there is a Jobsity distributed nearshore software team ready to help you discuss your options. Contact us if you’d like to talk.
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Santiago Mino, VP of Strategy at Jobsity, has been working in Business Development for several years now helping companies and institutions achieve their goals. He holds a degree in Industrial Design, with an extensive and diverse background. Now he spearheads the sales department for Jobsity in the Greater Denver Area.