jFactor

jFactor is a code refactoring tool for Java developers that integrates directly with IBM's VisualAge for Java; a version supporting Borland's JBuilder is expected in mid-summer 2001. The jFactor commands are executed directly within the VisualAge IDE, and provide developers with automated functions allowing them to streamline and optimize the internal structure of their code.

Refactoring is the process of internally optimizing a program, making it easier to update and reuse and possibly more extensible, without changing the program's outward appearance or functionality. Some examples of refactoring might be the creation of callable methods for repetitive program tasks; renaming of program variables and or methods to more closely resemble their actual functions; replacement of arbitrary constant values with "explaining" variables; etc. jFactor provides commands that automate each of these tasks and more, including safe deletion; pushing or pulling methods and fields among classes/subclasses; and the ability to auto replace message invocations with the actual method body.

jFactor for VisualAge for Java is available now, at a price of $695/developer. The JBuilder version is expected in mid-July of 2001. A free 30-day evaluation version is also available.