Pattern-Oriented Software Architecture: A Pattern Language for Distributed Computing, 4th Volume

Glossary

This glossary defines key terms that we use frequently throughout the book. All the terms are related to various aspects of distributed computing software and systems. When a definition refers to other terms in the glossary, we italicize these terms.

We have omitted many terms that we only use in one context, such as enterprise resource planning (ERP). When we felt that such terms needed an explanation, we gave it in context rather than including them in the Glossary.

For completeness, we have also included common terms such as pattern, software architecture, and idiom that were explained in depth in various sections of [POSA1].

Abstract Class

A class that does not implement all the methods defined in its interface. An abstract class defines a common abstraction for its subclasses.

Abstract Component

A component that specifies one or more interfaces for other components. An abstract component can either be explicit, such as an abstract class, or implicit, such as a class parameter of a C++ template function. Abstract components form the basis for exploiting polymorphism and implementing flexible systems. This term is used in the same way as abstract class, to avoid restricting patterns to object-oriented languages.

Abstract Method

The declaration of an operation of an abstract class that must be defined by a subclass.

Active Connection Establishment

The connection role played by a peer application that initiates a connection to a remote peer. (Compare with Passive Connection Establishment ...