Description

Introduction

In today’s interconnected world, integrating applications through web services is crucial for building scalable, distributed systems. Progress 4GL, also known as OpenEdge ABL, provides robust tools for developing enterprise-level applications, and its integration with web services allows developers to extend the reach and functionality of their applications. The integration of Progress 4GL with Web Services enables communication between systems across diverse platforms using standard protocols such as SOAP and REST.

This training focuses on leveraging Progress 4GL to create, consume, and manage web services, ensuring seamless communication between applications. Participants will learn how to integrate Progress 4GL-based applications with external services and use web services as a bridge to interact with modern technologies like cloud systems, third-party APIs, and external databases.

Prerequisites

• Basic knowledge of Progress 4GL (OpenEdge ABL)
• Familiarity with web services concepts (SOAP, REST)
• Experience with client-server architecture
• Understanding of XML, JSON, and HTTP protocols
• Experience in programming and application development

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Web Services

1.1 What are Web Services?
1.2 SOAP vs. REST Web Services
1.3 Web Services Standards and Protocols (WSDL, UDDI, SOAP, REST, etc.)
1.4 Benefits of Integrating Web Services with Progress 4GL

2. Setting Up Web Services in Progress 4GL

2.1 Web Services Architecture Overview
2.2 Configuring Web Services in OpenEdge Studio
2.3 Defining Web Services Endpoints
2.4 Understanding WSDL Files for SOAP-based Web Services

3. Consuming Web Services in Progress 4GL

3.1 Invoking SOAP-based Web Services from Progress 4GL
3.2 Consuming RESTful Web Services from Progress 4GL
3.3 Parsing XML and JSON Responses
3.4 Handling Errors and Faults in Web Services Communication

4. Exposing Progress 4GL Application as a Web Service

4.1 Creating SOAP Web Services from OpenEdge ABL Procedures
4.2 Building REST APIs with OpenEdge ABL
4.3 WSDL Generation and Service Deployment
4.4 Securing Web Services with Authentication and Encryption

5. Working with Data Formats (XML and JSON)

5.1 Using XML in Progress 4GL Web Services
5.2 Handling JSON Data in Web Services Integration
5.3 Converting XML/JSON Data to and from OpenEdge ABL Formats
5.4 Practical Examples of XML and JSON in Web Services

6. Web Services Security

6.1 Implementing SSL/TLS in Web Services Communication
6.2 Authentication Methods (Basic, OAuth, JWT, etc.)
6.3 Data Encryption and Message Integrity
6.4 Securing SOAP and REST Endpoints

7. Error Handling and Troubleshooting

7.1 Common Errors in Web Services Communication
7.2 Exception Handling in OpenEdge ABL Web Service Calls
7.3 Debugging SOAP and REST Web Services in OpenEdge
7.4 Using Logs and Monitoring Tools for Troubleshooting

8. Advanced Web Services Features

8.1 Asynchronous Web Services in Progress 4GL
8.2 Using Web Services with OpenEdge Business Logic
8.3 Web Services in Cloud-based OpenEdge Applications
8.4 Handling Large Data Transfers in Web Services

9. Performance Optimization for Web Services

9.1 Optimizing SOAP Web Service Calls for Speed
9.2 Reducing Latency in RESTful Web Service Calls
9.3 Caching Strategies for Web Service Responses
9.4 Load Balancing and Scalability in Web Services Integration

10. Real-World Case Studies and Use Cases

10.1 Case Study: Integrating OpenEdge with External CRM Systems
10.2 Case Study: Building a Cloud-based Application with Web Services
10.3 Case Study: Integrating Progress 4GL Application with Third-Party APIs
10.4 Practical Applications in Retail, Finance, and Healthcare

11. Testing and Deploying Web Services

11.1 Tools for Testing Web Services (SOAP UI, Postman, etc.)
11.2 Unit Testing Web Service Integrations in OpenEdge ABL
11.3 Best Practices for Deploying Web Services in Production
11.4 Managing Service Versions and Updates

12. Conclusion and Best Practices

12.1 Recap of Key Concepts
12.2 Best Practices for Web Services Integration
12.3 Ongoing Maintenance and Monitoring of Web Services
12.4 Future Trends in Web Services and OpenEdge Integration

Integrating Progress 4GL with Web Services enables applications to interact seamlessly with external systems, expanding the functionality and flexibility of business applications. By mastering the creation, consumption, and management of web services, developers can build more interconnected and robust solutions. With hands-on experience in configuring and deploying web services, participants will be equipped to work with diverse platforms and technologies, ensuring their applications are scalable, efficient, and secure. This training provides essential knowledge for leveraging SOAP and RESTful web services effectively within Progress 4GL-based applications, making developers proficient in modern integration practices.