2 What is New in Oracle Forms Services

This chapter describes the features and improvements in 12c of Oracle Fusion Middleware Forms Services.

For the list of new features in Oracle Forms Services 11g Release 2, see "What's New in Oracle Forms Services" at http://docs.oracle.com/cd/E48391_01/doc.11120/e24477/whats_new.htm

2.1 Oracle BI-Publisher Integration

In previous versions, Oracle Forms offered integration with Oracle Reports. In this release, Oracle Forms also provides integration with Oracle BI-Publisher. This will give developers the choice between using one or both reporting tool. For more information, see Form Builder Help for more information.

2.2 JVM Controller Improvements

This release includes improved diagnostic features that will make troubleshooting easier. JVM load balancing and improved memory handling will improve performance. Refer to Chapter 10, "Configuring and Managing Java Virtual Machines" for more information.

2.3 Customizable Color Schemes

In previous releases, Oracle Forms exposed nine color schemes associated with the applet parameter colorScheme. In this release, custom color schemes can be created then applied at runtime. No application coding changes are required.

Refer to Chapter 4, "Creating Custom Runtime Color Scheme" for more information.

2.4 Applet Parameters

New applet parameters allow administrators to enhance an application's look and feel without having to make application code changes. Such functionality would traditionally require the development of Forms Java Beans or Plugable Java Components or other application coding changes.

Refer to Chapter 4, "Forms Configuration Parameters" for more information.

2.5 Environment Variables

New environment variables allow administrators to enhance the behavior of an application without the need for application code changes. Refer to Chapter 4, "Managing Environment Variables" for more information.

2.6 SSO Integration Improvements

In previous Oracle Forms versions, an application was only able to single sign-on to gain access. Single sign-off was not possible. In this release, Oracle Forms will offer the ability to single sign-off using either an on demand option or during the traditional application exit process.

Refer to Chapter 9, "Using Forms Services with Oracle Access Manager" for more information.

2.7 Client Deployment Options

This release will offer four client deployment types. By allowing administrators and application developers to have a choice of the client deployment style, applications can be delivered to end-users in a manner most appropriate for the application type and the functionality it requires.

Refer to Section 3.4, "Client Configuration Considerations" for more information.

2.8 Form Builder Only Installation Option

This new installation option will offer the ability to install only the Form Builder and its associated utilities. No runtime or related components will be installed. This lighter weight installation option will be helpful when a runtime environment is not needed.

Refer to the Installing Oracle Forms and Reports guide for more information.