By Brian Benz with John R. Durant
Review by: Alex
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Have you ever wanted to implement XML with powerful services such as the Microsoft .NET and Sun Java frameworks? well this is probably the book for you then, this enterprise level book explains the complexities of XML 1.1 to create data driven web services using the powerful architecture of XML, the first thing which should be noted about this book is that it is aimed at users who already have a working knowledge of XML 1.1, on reading this book it was something that was noted on beginning (due to this I have ordered its companion book, the XML 1.1 Bible) and all those beginning in XML should do the same. For what it is though it shows how users of XML can create extremely powerful website solutions using a language which is considered the future of the internet by many, with XHTML, RSS and AJAX all working using XML formatted code this book offers you an enterprise level look at what can be done with this powerful and exciting language. As a beginner to XML I personally found this book very complex though its tutorials and reference manual (In classic "Bible" fashion) offered me comfort and has helped me to pick up along the way, however without the XML bible this book is not for the faint of heart.
For advanced users of XML this book offers incite into new and existing technologies which enable programmers to finally link their data driven applications into a website environment. With tutorials taking you step by step through the technologies (with a brief introduction to those new to XML) and real world examples, those who have a background in web design (but not necessarily XML) will be able to pick up the pieces and be able to slowly get to grips with J2EE, SOAP and the other things which this book describes in detail such as Oracle integration. XSL and Microsoft Office integration is discussed with chapters of their own, clearly giving users the opportunity to expand their knowledge to the maximum possible level. Using this book as a reference manual is like a mini library all on its own describing key technologies which implement XML (though RSS is not included to any length) which anyone wishing to create their own web applications will find extremely useful for cross compatibility and for those wishing to take it up as a profession will enjoy just how many services are worked with (to give you at least a basic knowledge of working with practically every technology which XML can master).
This book is suitable for the following types of people interested in website development:
- Website developers with an existing knowledge of XML wanting to expand what they know
- Professional website developers who wish to implement XML services into their websites
- Advanced website developers who require a reference manuals on XML service integration