WS-Spec Workshops

Overview

Upcoming workshops

Workshop results

FAQs

1. What is a workshop?
2. What are the goals of the workshops?
3. Who can attend these workshops?
4. How can I find out about upcoming workshops?
5. How do I register to attend a WS-Spec Workshop?
6. Why is there a legal agreement?
7. Where are WS-Spec Workshops held?
8. How long is each WS-Spec Workshop?
9. Is there a fee to attend the WS-Spec Workshops?
10. What do you do with the feedback gathered at each event?

What is a workshop?

WS-Workshops are events, sponsored by multiple vendors, that give you the opportunity to learn about advanced Web Services specifications (WS-* specs) and to offer feedback to the Specification Authors as input to improve future drafts.

There are two types of events: Feedback Workshops and Interoperability Fests. In Feedback Workshops, the authors of a specification discuss the content of the specification and solicit feedback from attendees. Interoperability Fests are hands-on workshops primarily aimed at developers of companies who have developed implementations of a particular Web Services specification. These developers meet together to test the interoperability of their implementations with others.

What are the goals of the workshops?

There are two types of events: Feedback Workshops and Interoperability Fests. The goal of the Feedback Workshops is to allow the authors of a specification to present purpose and content of the specification. The participants can then offer feedback and input to improve future drafts.

The goal of the Interoperability Fests is to provide a collaborative environment for a specific specification where developers can participate in hands-on workshops to test the interoperability of their implementations with others.

Who can attend these workshops?

WS-Workshops are open to all who wish to attend. Although a special invitation is not required, an RSVP is necessary to allow the organizing vendor to prepare the logistics of the meeting appropriately. Those receiving invitations are encouraged to forward to other interested parties to provide a larger base from which to draw.

Although anyone can attend the Interoperability Fests, these are hands-on workshops primarily aimed at developers of companies who have developed implementations of a particular Web Services specification.

How can I find out about upcoming workshops?

There are several ways to learn about upcoming workshops:

• WS-* authors post information about WS-Workshops to their individual company Web sites.
• You can find details in the Web Services zone on developerWorks.
• Upcoming Workshop information is posted to relevant industry discussion forums.
• E-mail invitations are sent to companies that have shown an interest in WS-* specifications. These invitations can be forwarded to anyone.

How do I register to attend a WS-Spec Workshop?

Registration information is posted at the various author Web sites, and the URLs are included in the e-mail invitations. Participating companies need to sign a legal agreement before attending. This agreement is included in the invitation.

Why is there a legal agreement?

The legal agreement is required to ensure that the authors can make improvements to the specifications based on the attendees' feedback and contributions while maintaining the specification as free and open. All attendees are required to sign the legal agreement, but there is no requirement that attendees actually make any contributions. More information is included in the invitation for each workshop.

Where are WS-Spec Workshops held?

Workshops are hosted by the authors of the specification and are typically hosted at one of the authors' facilities. These facilities are located throughout the United States and other countries, giving potential attendees many opportunities to attend.

How long is each WS-Spec Workshop?

Feedback Workshops typically last one day. Interoperability Fests typically last 2-3 days.

Is there a fee to attend the WS-Spec Workshops?

No, there is no fee to attend the WS-Spec Workshops, however attendees are responsible for their own travel expenses.

What do you do with the feedback gathered at each event?

All feedback is reviewed, and it might be incorporated into the next version of the specification.