SaaS + Java + Exchange ideas & tools

I currently work for small shop where we run a number of middleware services for publishers. We build services in the traditional style of Java servlets, Spring dependency injection, Tomcat deployments, ActiveMQ message bus, MySql for transient data, and Oracle or permanent data. The engineering of this style is well known to the team. But the consequence are that: Our deployments are manual; Startup times too long; Spring has driven us to a monolithic implementation. We are servicing our customer's needs. But we need to do better. How do we get better?

If you are a SaaS + Java shop in RI, MA, or eastern CT and would like to talk about tools and processes please contact me at andrew@andrewgilmartin.com.

Co-working in South Kingstown, RI

The summer is approaching and the kids will be home. Yet I need to get work done and I suspect you do too. I would like to create a co-working space here in South Kingstown. A co-working space is a space to work from without the distractions that come with home, family, and coffee shops. It has desks, chairs, wireless, lockers, air conditioning and great lighting. And, with luck, a great location. I am looking to keep the membership costs at no more than $100/month.

If you would like to discuss this further please contact me at andrew@andrewgilmartin.com and we can organize a meeting where the first half is informational and the second is planning.

Update: Everyone likes the idea but I was not able to get anyone to commit. When you work for "free" from home, at cafes and at libraries, paying a $100/month is lot less appetizing. It will happen one day. Just not for me this summer.