Q:

Java Portlet API

I am looking at the Java Portlet API for the first time and trying to decide on whether or not to consider using it.
From the look of things, it looks like a technology that might be considered old school because i seem not to see very current references of its usages.
My question is, would you consider using the Java Portlet API, more so when you are planning to develop an integrated web application consisting of modules that may themselves be separate applications of their own.

A:

Yes
Normally we go for a Portal application (using Portal API) in scenarios like this:

Multiple application(Portlets) in same page.
Multiple applications in separate pages but uses same Login(or User credentials).
Multiple applications which communicate to each other in same page or in different page.

These are just highlevel thoughts. Based on the application and available server stack, the Portal server can be chosen IBM Websphere Portal / Liferay / Weblogic Portal.

