The Java programming language is syntactically similar to C and C++. Unlike those languages, however, programming in Java is object-oriented instead of having this feature added on.

The primary advantage of programming Java is that it can run on any computer that has Java installed. The biggest disadvantage of Java has traditionally been its performance, although this has improved significantly since it was released in 1995.

You should make the decision to use Java for an application before considering any Java programming services. This will reduce the tendency for the consulting firm's expertise to dictate the choice of programming language.

Java game programming can require knowledge in a variety of Java libraries. These include:

1. Extended Markup Language (XML) libraries. These routines parse, transform and validate XML code.

2. Integration libraries. The Java Database Connectivity (JDBC) interface provides database access and the Java Naming and Directory Interface (JNDI) performs discovery and lookup operations.

3. User interface libraries. The Abstract Windowing Toolkit (AWT) provides Graphic User Interface (GUI) components.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use Java game programming companies to create custom games in Java

There are many games made from Java computer code. A contract Java programming company should already have a proven approach and tools to use in developing Java applications.

I recommend: Look at a Java programming and contract service like Celeritas that can provide a specific list of things to look for when considering a Java consulting company.

Contact different Java programming services to determine which types of Java they use

The goal of this step is determine the Java consulting service's specific area of expertise. It is often more important that the contractor be skilled with a particular library rather the Java language itself.

I recommend: Look at eDeveloper Network as an example of how a Java programming company promotes its expertise in a specific area like Java 2 Enterprise Edition (J2EE).

Consider a fixed rate for Java programming services

An outsourcing model based on an hourly rate is usually preferable for Java programmers unless the user requirement is extremely specific.

I recommend: Find a company like Axmor which offers a variety of pricing models. They also provide a list of specific Java technologies that they have expertise in.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Java applications frequently require connectivity to a database. When hiring a Java programmer, you should also ask which middleware and databases they have experience with.
• •  Ask about Sun Java certifications. The Java programmer certification requires a written test and the Java developer certification requires the applicant to write an application in Java. Both certifications are quite difficult and provide an excellent Java programming tutorial.
• •  Learn Java programming by writing games from a Java programming tutorial. This is an excellent and entertaining way of getting an introduction to Java programming.