Companies find themselves needing to network, to reach out to new customers, to interact more effectively with their suppliers, to engage in alliances with new partners. This economy is largely propelled by the Internet, but also takes in other networks, such as wireless networks of cellular phones and handheld devices, corporate intranets, university research networks, and a variety of other networks, local and wide area. Historically, the focus of information technology has been data management. That is, large-scale database management systems have allowed organizations to gather, analyze, and interpret data for strategic advantage. In the networked economy, the focus of information technology shifts toward applications.
Computer applications are the key to reusing existing data and accessing new data.
Applications are the key to establishing secure and robust links with customers, suppliers, and partners. Thus, the ability to quickly and efficiently develop and deploy innovative applications as new opportunities arise is key to competing effectively. The Java 2 Platform, Enterprise Edition, is designed to provide a standard for developing and deploying the applications required to take advantage of the reach of the networked economy. The simplest answer to this question is that standards expand markets, and reduce the friction that impedes transactions. Standards allow businesses to focus on specific business problems rather than complex technical problems.