j2ee: Struts overview [21/27]

We have discussed a little bit of the MVC architecture as we discussed integrating servlets and JSPs. However, it is considered best practice to use a framework that helps enforce the design guidelines of MVC, instead of having developers write a web application from scratch.

Model 1 vs. Model 2

There are a number of MVC frameworks available for J2EE, but the most popular is definitely the Struts framework from the Apache Jakarta project.

A web framework usually provides:

• Separation of web page flow from code
• Form validation
• Tag libraries or other view components to aid in developing HTML forms
• i18n and l10n
• Extension/Modification points for advanced users
• Other elements to make the developers lives easier