With an increasing array of APIs, components, and containers being included in Java applications these days, the ability to accurately and consistently identify the version of software products and components can go a long way towards preventing wasted effort, confusion, and headaches. This article introduces the Java Product Versioning Specification and functionality built into the Java platform designed to support the evolution of software products and components in a simple, standardized manner.

Read the rest in JavaWorld.

Read the specification at Sun.