Abstract: The concept of “renderers” and “translators” is introduced in connection with bidirectional conversion between object models and XML. A renderer embodies the logic responsible for mediating the parser specific APIs for reading and writing XML. It utilizes a plurality of translator objects, which embody the mapping information needed to convert the XML into object model instances. The translator objects themselves do not contain “knowledge” of parser implementations; thus, the translators are common and can be shared and reused by any and all renderer implementations. Since each translator embodies the knowledge and rules regarding how to convert an XML model to an object model, and how to convert object models to XML, it is thus independent of the particular renderer that is being used, whether it be SAX, DOM, or some other renderer.

Abstract: A method, an apparatus, and computer instructions are provided for extending operations of an application in a data processing system. A primary operation is executed. All extended operations of the primary operation are cached and pre and post operation identifiers are identified. For each pre operation identifier, a pre operation instance is created and executed. For each post operation identifier, a post operation instance is created and executed.

Abstract: A method, an apparatus, and computer instructions are provided for implementing dynamic function groups in a data processing system. An extensible framework is provided, which provides function groups to amalgamate extended sets of functionality by either vendor or purpose and allows the function groups to be dynamically enabled or disabled within a software application. A user may specify which extended sets of functionality are relevant and when to enable them. With the use of function groups, third party vendors may integrate added functionalities with existing ones in a software application, and indicate when these functionalities should be available to end-users without the need to duplicate code. The invention allows for the construction of other extensible frameworks including wizards, editors, and operations may also be extended with the use of function groups.