Dynamic object technology
Robert Laddaga, James Veitch · Communications of the ACM · 1997
The article discusses about the dynamic object technology that can be easily applied to runtime updating problems. Dynamic object technology combines object-oriented programming technology with dynamic linking and updating capabilities. Many programmers are familiar with the program development advantages of dynamic languages, which allow them to quickly redefine functionality in a running system, and switch instantly to the newly defined functionality. Dynamic object technology excels in several areas: It is ideal for runtime configuration, without needing to access source code. It uses techniques of reflection, meta-data, and meta-object protocols. It permits ongoing evolution, even in systems that are completely operational. Dynamic objects are the new wave of the future, appearing in applications for workflow management, process control, switch management, database management, decision support, scheduling and planning, and Web serving. This article presents examples illustrating the application of dynamic object technology to problems requiring more flexible software applications.