Is it possible/easy to use Hibernate with existing database?

[dave taubler]

I am just learning Hibernate; it looks like a valuable ORM and, especially considering the new version 3.0, fairly easy to use. I am considering suggesting that my team use it for a project I am on. In this project, however, the database structure already exists and has been in use for awhile. So that being said, is it possible to implement Hibernate into an existing application, plugging it into an existing database? Is it common to do so?

It would seem that as long as one ensures that the db table and column names match between the database and the mapping files, then this would be possible. But since I am so new to Hibernate, I can't tell for sure.

Thanks in advance for an insight!

[miguel lisboa]

 

is it possible to implement Hibernate into an existing application, plugging it into an existing database?

yes

[Stephane Ekobo]

Yes, don't be afraid Hibernate is easy... :-)

[dave taubler]

Okay; thanks!

[Mark Spritzler]

Definitely. Hibernate can be used anyway you want. Meaning if you have Java Business Objects already, or a database already, you can start from any point.

Pick up the book Hibernate in Action.

And your database can be designed anyway, so if you have a legacy database without it being third normal form, Hibernate can map to it as well.

Mark