Investigating the Limitations of Java Annotations for Input Validation

Abstract

Recently Java annotations have received a lot of attention as a possible way to simplify the usage of various frameworks, ranging from persistence and verification to security. In this paper we discuss our experiences in implementing an annotation framework for input validation purposes. We investigate the advantages and more importantly their limitations in the design of validation tests. We conclude that annotations are a good choice for specifying common validation tests. However, the limitations of annotations have an impact on creating and using generic tests and tests involving multiple properties.