Thursday, March 16, 2006

webMethods 6.5 in LINUX

We are deploying webMethods 6.5 on Redhat linux on IBM servers. I don't have all of the details, but I will post any issues or resolutions here.

If anyone has any experience or gotchas, please send me an email.

We'll be using 6.5 IS, Broker, Workflow and Oracle 10g.

Monday, March 13, 2006

The State of Affairs for webMethods Professionals

I've noticed that there is a substantial increase in the number of calls I receive each week from recruiters. On a good week, I usually receive 3-5 emails and 2-3 phone calls. Now, I receive from 10-14 or more emails, and up to 8-9 calls per week. I haven't changed my number in a few years.

There's a difference now. I've noticed that there is a serious momentum in the marketplace for top-knotch, senior-level personnel. Most of the calls are for architect/mentoring positions.

While the rates for the higher end positions pay well, I've noticed that the pay for the lower end positions are much lower.

I've also noticed that BearingPoint, IBM, Deloitte and many of the other large consulting companies are looking for commercial consultants.

The government side is even stronger. SRA, CGI-AMS, SAIC, CACI, Lockheed Martin, and many other firms are looking for US Citizens with Federal experience.

It's good to be with webMethods.

Wednesday, March 08, 2006

SOA Master Class March 8, 2006, webMethods Headquarters

I promised a follow up to the webMethods SOA Master Class. First, it really was a technical forum. We were able to firsthand configure a web service through service net. It wasn't so technical that we installed the software, but it was interesting to see the system actually work.

All of my questions were answered by either the presenter or by one of the several key technical architects that were present at this class. I don't know if they will be at the other classes that are scheduled, however, since this was at webMethods HQ, there were several in attendance.

I was pleased to see the friendly faces of Jayant Patel from BearingPoint, and Scott Guenther and Jenny Pascua from SRA International. I had the opportunity to work with these folks or associate with them at some time in the past.

I also met a host of other folks from other companies or government agencies. It was interesting to note the cross-section of attendees.

Speaking of government, it seems as if there were a tremendous amount of government presence at the conference (including myself).

Overall, if you have an opportunity to attend one of these master classes, please do so. The people who can answer ANY question you may have are available on hand.