It's well known in Java community neighborhoods that the jcp.org site has been the communication lifeline for the JCP program since its inception. It's been the virtual meeting place for members, the primary source of information and updates about Java standards, and the spot where key interactions for the development of JSRs have occurred.

This month the JCP program has a new site. The redesigned jcp.org provides for broader and deeper interaction through personalized content, user-friendly navigation, and other newly introduced capabilities.

Don't take my word for it though - go to the new jcp.org. I'm sure your experience with it will be richer and your time on the site more effectively spent.

Take, for instance, the ability to customize content. Users can now build their own My JSR Page with a list of specifications that you choose to watch. Or take the update icons that alert you to changes on the JSR page and make it easier to spot and click through them.

The log-in procedures have been streamlined too: each user has only one sign-on name and password. In the past, users were required to have several logins for each level of involvement.

You'll notice from the beginning that while the redesigned site includes almost the same content as before, the flow of menus is more logical, making it easier to navigate to the preferred information. You'll also be pleased with the improved search engine, which now allows you to look up JSRs by number, name, or keyword descriptions. The membership sign-up procedures are simpler too; applicants can now input their data directly into an online form. Gone are the days of faxed-in forms and handwritten illegible account information.

As for enhanced participation, communication, and transparency, the new jcp.org takes a leap forward and inaugurates message boards. Be they for Spec Leads, Expert Group members, or general users - the message boards allow users to interact through e-mail or via a Web interface. I expect this will give a new impulse to the open exchange of ideas among participants.

There's something better for everyone on the new jcp.org. The site enables everyone to do more than was previously possible. For instance, if you're a general user, you can take advantage of the opportunity to personalize your view of the site, access message boards with the public's comments included, and do quick searches for JSR pages. In addition to these features, if you're a Spec Lead, you'll find it easier to edit JSR pages and update JSR community pages. Stepping into what was formerly PMO territory, Spec Leads will be able to make announcements and update the JSR proposal detail page with new information, such as an anticipated schedule of releases. If you are an Executive Committee member, you'll have your own message board and a single login process to enter the balloting area so you can vote on JSRs.

However (there's always a "however"), to take advantage of all the site has to offer, there is one prerequisite: go register! It's easy and free.

Expect additional improvements to be included in the second roll out of the JCP site, such as the ability to search for articles, success stories, case studies, tutorials, bios, and other content, so bookmark it. Until then I encourage you to e-mail your feedback to pmo@jcp.org after you spent some time on the new site and tried out its new features.