Distributed Systems Issues for Analysts and Designers

Introduction

There are a daunting number of components, standards, APIs and acronyms to be found in the subject of distributed systems. Even defining just what "distributed systems" and "client/server" mean isn't straightforward. Increasingly there are also connections with, and influences to and from, object-oriented and component-based development. This course offers definitions and explanations of the issues and introduces the key components and standards (and their acronyms), and looks at the impact of distribution on analysis and design.

Duration and Construction

The course lasts two days. Each day will start at 09.30 and finish at 16.30. The delivery is via lecture, exercise and discussion.

The days consist of two morning sessions and three, shorter afternoon sessions, with one hour for lunch. Time will be available after 16.30 for extended discussions or related issues.

Intended Audience

Participants will be practising analysts and designers. They will be wanting to acquaint themselves with distributed systems and client/server in particular, and will be wanting an introduction to the various technologies and issues, and to understand how the analysis and design phases are impacted.

Aims

To learn what distributed systems architectures exist, including client/server
To appreciated the potential benefits of distributed systems and to be aware of any potential pitfalls
To understand the available platforms and products supporting distributed systems
To be understand of the key standards and understand their importance
To understand the importance and availability of middleware
To understand recent developments such as DCOM/COM+ CORBA and Java's RMI
To understand the impact of distribution on analysis and design techniques and methods

Deliverables

Lectures
Facilitation of discussions
Copies of lecture slides, plus explanatory text and summaries
Reference list of books and sources

Numbers

We recommend that there are no more than 12 participants, with the best results usually obtained when there are at least 8 participants. It is possible, by negotiation and mutual agreement, for more than 12 participants to be present.

A brief history of distributed systems architectures
An introduction to, and definition of, client/server
The benefits of client/server and other distributed systems
The costs of client/server and other distributed systems
The enabling technologies
The standards
Client platforms and technologies
Server platforms and technologies
Communication technologies
Middleware
Impact on analysis techniques and methods
Impact on design techniques and methods

Site Requirements

Data projector of at least 1024 x 768 resolution, and suitable screen
White-board, preferably not doubling up as the OHP's screen; blackboard and chalk are acceptable
Flip-chart and easel, with additional flip-chart paper
It is best if the seating is not fixed. Auditorium style seating, for example, makes it difficult to switch from lecture to group work.

Contacting

Please contact Matrice by telephone on +44 7010 704705; by fax on +44 7010 704706; by emailing bookings@matrice.co.uk; or by visiting http://www.matrice.co.uk