Delivering power with minimal restraint: APL and the web

ABSTRACT

Networked computers have been used for over 30 years. APL has been part of that environment from the beginning. One key value APL has always provided is the ability for individuals and groups to be independent of complex, centralized administration.Today, APL continues to excel in that role. New technologies often require centralized administration of services such as Web page development and publishing, report printing and distribution, Web based interactive applications and Web enabled data delivery.We have been able to provide these types of services in a way that allows users connected worldwide to a singe APL system to develop, test and distribute data and applications with a minimum of overhead and central control. This paper will discuss four areas of services and several applications in each area.The four areas are:1. Web Mapped APL Files.These allow any user that can create and manage an APL file to create a Web site and distribute non-interactive data.2. Global Print Distribution via FTP.This facility allows any network user to define their PC, Workstation or Server to the APL FTP delivery system. Once defined, reports can be automatically FTPed to their PC from any corporate network host, not just the APL host.3. Parameterized Interactive Web Applications.This is a Web metasystem that allows any APL user to define an interactive Web site using a centralized Web server based in APL. Once the initial registration is complete, the user is free to change or expand their web application using simple, but powerful tools.4. Application-to-Application Systems.These are applications that require custom software on both the server and client systems. These offer the most tailored user interface, but require the most sophisticated programming, in general.