GUI for tomcat: java server/client

[david wade arnold <ar...@uni.edu>]

I am  also concerned with utilizing jsp or servlets for the deployment of the
GUI. There has been talk that we could start with Java 1.1 for the install
and utilize swing, and then after installation was complete the system could
then be administered through servlets/jsp. I personally would like to contain
the project in one graphical system. I don't want people to install tomcat
and then run into the problem of not being able to load the GUI
administration tool. I know most of us think that the average user will be
able to make the transfer but people don't want to worry about how to get to
a configuration menu. I just don't want someone looking at a FAQ just to load
the GUI configuration tool.  ease of use is what we are after by adding a
GUI. all of us have already been successfull with tomcat through the FAQ,
but ease of use is what it will take to have a opensource project slam dunk
web sphere and the like.
    My second thought is that we need to keep ALL operating systems in mind
in our development. Several people have made comments about why they think
this or that should be done. I would encourage people to continue to speak
out when they see issues that would affect their OS. I run linux both on my
desktop and on my servers. Sometimes I don't look past my box so everyone
lets all stay involved.
    I think our best option is to develop the application as a server that
runs on a port on the system that is running tomcat. We could then write the
interface as a java swing application that would connect to the server on
port 8088 ,or any other arbitrary port, for administration. This would allow
for both local and remote administration of tomcat.  It would also allow us
to have one integrated environment for installation and administration that
would run on all operating systems. So the java claim!
       Tell me your feelings and suggestions. please shoot holes in my idea.
I have a free weekend if we can get everything ironed out. This has been a
great discussion thus far keep it up, THIS IS WHAT OPEN SOURCE IS ALL ABOUT!
WADE ARNOLD
IF anyone wants to pop some ideas off  me call me at 319-277-5382