The Java® programming language includes many modules and components designed to assist developers in building software applications. The Java® message service (JMS) is a module that processes computer messages. Some examples of typical messages include email, instant messaging (IM), and short message services (SMS), which are used in phone texting.

JMS is often used as a software technology for business-to-business (B2B) functions. This makes it easier for companies to manage inventory because requests can send be quickly sent in electronic messages. The Java® message service allows businesses to communicate quickly with suppliers and customers.

The Java® message service module is built on the concepts of message-oriented middleware (MOM). This software technique has been used for several decades as a standard way for sending messages between computers. JMS is considered a generic version of MOM because it includes several functions that work with multiple types of messages. This makes it more flexible than other messaging programs because it will work with many message formats and protocols. Java® programmers who require a standard message framework typically use the module.

Learning the Java® message service requires practice and special training on how to manage message traffic across a network. Several tutorials available on the Internet typically include good code examples and training documentation. It is important to have a basic understanding of MOM concepts before attempting to learn the JMS programming module. This will make it easier to understand and build into a software application.

The Java® development community generally uses JMS as the default method for building message based applications. This module is typically included as a default installation for many commercial messaging products including IBM MQSeries®. This wide adoption of Java® message service makes it a good option for companies looking for a standard message technology.

Many of the functions available in Java® message service module have been incorporated into other Java® technologies. This includes timers, message-driven bean technology, and auditing controls. This integration of technology can be attributed to the advanced features of JMS, which has set the standard on message management services, making it a viable solution for many other business problems.