Data Transfer Object (DTO)

A variation / interpretation of the Data Transfer Object (DTO) design pattern (Distribution Pattern). A DTO is nothing more than an object that can hold some data. Most commonly it is used for for transporting that data between systems, e.g. a client and a server.

This package provides an abstraction for such DTOs.

If you don't know about DTOs, I recommend you to read Martin Fowler's description of DTO, and perhaps perform a few Google searches about this topic.

When to use this

• When there is a strong need to interface DTOs, e.g. what properties must be available via getters and setters
• When you need to encapsulate data that needs to be communicated between systems and or component instances

Caution

Using DTOs can, or rather will, increase the complexity of your project. You should only use it when you are really sure that you need them.