Platform Integration vs. Assimilation

> From: "Joe Pluta" <joepluta@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
> For portability, I just use the Java Toolkit, and it runs on
> any platform with a JVM.

The Java Toolkit reinforces dependency on native iSeries host services.  One
might call it a "platform integration" interface.

The iSeries itself is a good example of platform integration, running
OS/400, Windows, Linux, and Unix applications on a single server.  Each OS
retains distinctive attributes while sharing a few hardware and software
interfaces.

Java promotes a common runtime environment across multiple platforms. One
might call it a "platform assimilation" interface.

Some value platform distinctiveness, while others value platform
assimilation.  Some value platform integration, while others yearn for
platform equalization.

>From a business database application perspective, which approach offers
greater long term potential?  Integration or assimilation?

Nathan M. Andelin
www.relational-data.com