The Jenera framework is designed to provide common functionality for Web based applications, acting as a base for creating new projects. New projects, populated with default users and content, can be generated easily, and new functionality can be developed in a layered manner. Jenera emphasises contemporary features such as XHTML and CSS based layout, AJAX controls, and is designed to be handicap-accessible. Specialized features include; MediaWiki markup may be used for entering and displaying site content; shareable lists of content may be combined and organized; see below for additional featurs.
This document provides an overview of Jenera features, mainly using the Virtual Clinic project for demonstration.
Typical sitemap graph (Java applet)
Features such as Lab Results and Virtual Coach content are part of the Virtual Clinic project.
All jenera data types can be collected, organized, and printed or sent via lists.
Rich multi page questionnaires are supported.
A complete messaging system can be used to isolate project specific email from regular mailboxes. Email copies and notifications are supported.
Integrated discussions can be linked to individual items. RSS/Atom feeds are provided.
Locations are stored for content items, enabling default integration with Google Maps.
A complete administrative backend enables features such as discrete content management, mail queueing, user management and management of pages, questionnaires, and discussions, as well as reporting and export.
Preferences enable features such as embedded questionnaires, and anonymity features for discussions.
Profile and personal group support provides the groundwork for skills and interest matching.
A project for the Ontario Institute for Cancer research used Jenera.
An international collaboration project uses Jenera.
Willow, a breast cancer support group, uses Jenera.
Jenera is developed as a Java 1.5 / JSP system. It uses standard Java open source facilities such as Hibernate, to enable database independence and caching. Servlet provides access controls to individual JSP (and potentially other programming language), composed of object and reusable fragment ouput, and content data. A layered Ant based build provides fine control over deployment and management.
The system is designed to be easily executed from any Java 1.5 capable computer, it includes a high speed, high efficiency database.
The framework is being used for a number of projects. A large health group in Spain is evaluating its use in their hospital system. The most recent release serves as a feature showcase, with some functionality roughed in which would need to be tested before production, with front end design for particular projects. It could be suitable for a smaller deployment as-is. The basis of jenera can scale up to any size, but additional work would need to be done for larger or more customized deployments. It is expected to be released under an LGPL or GPL license in May.