In 2021, Java turned 25 years old and continues to be one of the most trusted and reliable programming languages among software developers. As an object-oriented language, Java allows professionals to create platform-independent applications with just a text editor, the Java SE or EE Development Kit (JDK), with a Java runtime environment and hands-on development skills.
Working in a bespoke software development company with certified Java developers, I know that Java is still one of the most preferred technologies for developing enterprise applications and driving business growth. Java can be used to develop complete applications that can either run on a single computer or apps that can be distributed between servers and clients on a network. Another use case of Java is for non-standalone applets or applets that are part of a webpage and facilitate the user’s interaction with the graphical interface, similar to Microsoft Silverlight or Adobe AIR.
Before diving deeper into the top three Java development services, I’ll briefly discuss some of Java’s key benefits for modern software development and business growth.
Benefits of Java As a Programming Language
A Medium article published recently summarises important Google Trends regarding the popularity of Java. In terms of open positions for Java developers, it turns out that this is the third most in-demand programming language in the USA. However, when it comes to the level of interest, Java is a runner to Python, which is a rising star in the software development industry. Still, on Stackshare, thousands of successful companies share that they use Java in their tech stacks.
Some of the crucial benefits are its security, compatibility, and versatility – Java code runs on devices such as computers, smartphones, consoles, data centers, etc. Java is also scalable James Governor, one of the founders of RedMonk, said that whenever web companies grow, they turn into Java shops. Originally, Java was built around the idea to assist easy expansion, which is why it is so popular among companies and highly scalable start-ups. For example, Twitter migrated from Ruby to Java due to needing to scale.
Java Development Services for the Web
Modern web applications can be created using a wide variety of technologies such as Java, JavaScript, or Angular. However, from an architectural point of view, the single-page application (SPA) approach is super trendy and with lots of business potential. Just think of Instagram, Facebook, or PayPal. SPAs include a backend that is as stateless as possible with a JSON-based API interface and a JavaScript-based frontend that is rendered on the client-side. Java web development can also be used to access services such as peer-web services, database connections, and back-end services of web applications.
When it comes to Java web development, there are three most preferred approaches. The first method is to utilize a Java servlet, which is essentially an API (Application Programming Interface) that assists web developers in creating apps. A servlet’s advantage is that it gives experienced Java developers the flexibility and control they need to write excellent code for your business application. A second approach is using Java and JSF (JavaServer Faces), a more complicated API that provides more capabilities than a servlet but allows for less personalization. Last but not least, you can use Java frameworks such as Spring, Apache Struts, or Vaadin Flow for web development. They save time for Java developers since they can use existing code that is guaranteed to work instead of writing new code for each frequently used activity in your web app.
Enterprise Java Development
Besides having a Standard Edition (Java SE), Java is also popular for its Enterprise Edition (EE) platform, which is built on top of the Java SE platform. The Java EE offers an API and runtime environment for developing and running large-scale, scalable, multi-tiered, reliable, and secure business applications. The optimization and control of business processes, cost savings, and competitive advantages are just some of the reasons why modern companies rely on custom software applications more and more.
The demand for bespoke software development companies is constantly growing exactly because businesses grow, and so does the need to scale using reliable and secure technologies such as Java. nevertheless, to cover these rising business requirements successfully, the software development process should become more efficient. Developer tools and platforms have responded with low-code and RAD (Rapid Application Development) tools. Java Enterprise development can also be designed according to the emerging RAD concepts and offer a tailored solution to your company for solving complex corporate tasks. While Java is used in many essential market sectors, some of the notable business industries that rely on Java programming are the highly regulated ones. For example, in the banking sector, a Java suite can cover all tech needs from the back office, transaction management, cashflows, loans, new accounts, etc.
Mobile Java Development
In the age of Industry 4.0 and the “Internet of Things” and the resulting increase in the use of mobile devices in the professional environment, Java development services for mobile are also becoming increasingly important. When designing and programming business apps, the challenge is to present complex issues in a simpler way for use on mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets.
For this reason, mobile-optimized business apps often only map certain business software functions, while the desktop version provides the full range of functions.
You might know that Java used to be the official language to create Android applications but is not replaced by Kotlin. However, as one of the most popular languages in the world, Java and Java API continue to find numerous use cases when it comes to developing mobile applications.
Other use cases such as mobile apps with integrated Big Data features or Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities can also be utilized in mobile development.
The Future of Java in 2022 and Beyond
As it is already so popular among developers, there are doubts that there is a bright future ahead for Java development services in 2022 and beyond. However, numerous new features are being released frequently. In September 2021, the first stable and long-term support release of Java 17, was the first long-term support release since Java 11.
Apart from all ongoing enhancements, Java’s backward compatibility continues to be a preferred capability by enterprise clients as it allows long-term support, security, and scalability. Java also continues to be the appropriate choice for developing microservices as organizations gradually shift from SOA-based applications to the cloud, thanks to a range of sophisticated cloud-native frameworks like Spring Boot and the Eclipse MicroProfile.
Author Biography Aleksandrina Vasileva
Aleksandrina is a Content Creator at Dreamix, a custom software development company, and is keen on innovative technological solutions with a positive impact on our world. Her teaching background mixed with her interest in psychology drives her to share knowledge. She is an avid reader and enthusiastic blogger, always looking for the next inspiration.
