PlanetNTF

Last week, we hosted a webinar about the latest version (v12.0.1), and we have to say, our Domino customers are an engaged bunch! We had close to 200 questions asked in less than an hour and we’ve distilled them down to a Q&A, below.

For those who joined live, we apologize for the audio issues due to GoToWebinar experiencing global tech issues. We’ve since re-recorded the session and you can catch the recording here:

The latest Domino version is now available for customers with a current entitlement on the HCL software license & download portal. If you do not have an entitlement, please reach out to HCL sales and don’t forget to check out resources in our upgrade guide or reach out to our technical experts to start planning your upgrade.

2021 was a big year for us with the major release of v12, and we’re happy to be ending the year on another great release. Thank you, Team Yellow for your support, ideas, and feedback. We look forward to an amazing 2022!

Happy Holidays from the Domino Team and never forget: #dominoforever

UPGRADES & LICENSING

Q: I am running Domino v9 on my server, how easy is it to update to v12?  

A: VERY easy! For more information please watch the replay of this upgrade webinar or speak to an HCL technical expert here.  

Q: Can older Notes clients be upgraded directly to v12? 

A: Yes, the fastest option is to uninstall the previous client and install v12 with the same data directory.

Q: Does Domino v12.0.1 work with a v9.01 server? 

A: You can upgrade a v9.0.1 server to 12.0.1. Domino is backward compatible so Notes Clients of version v12.0.1 can access v9.0.1 servers.

Q: For a Domino server dedicated to SMTP messaging, what are the considerations for migrating from version 9 to version 12?  

A: It’s easy. We cover more on that in this upgrade webinar or you can speak to an HCL technical expert here.

Q: I am running v9 Domino servers with mission-critical apps that are nearly 25 years old. I need to update my servers, but I also need to update my apps so they can be available via web without Java requirement. Is there a good path to update the web interface of these older applications that rely on java for the web interface?  

A: We’re excited to learn more about your specific case but short answer is yes, that can be done! Please talk to a technical expert who can guide you through this process here..

Q: Is there a trial version of HCL Domino v12.0.1? Or is it possible to buy a single license for server and client (Notes, designer, admin)?
A: Yes, please contact your HCL sales representative for a trial or single license.

Q: As a consultant, can I access a test version for customers?  

A: Yes, you have a few options.  

• Business Partners have free access to the PartnerPack which allows you to set up demo environments for customers  
• You can use our sandbox environment here 
• You can get trial licenses issued by HCL sales 
• You can talk to an HCL technical expert.

Q: Is HCL Nomad a separate product or does it come with Domino?

A: HCL Nomad is available for iOS, Android, and also for web browsers. It comes with your Domino CCB license.

Q: How does licensing work? Do you charge per user or per server? 

A: Different license models are available. What we recommend is the “per authorized user” licensing called “CCB.” Please read more about it here.

Q: I am unable to locate 12.0.1 in my account.  

A: Please reach out to HCL support to check your account. Your license might have expired.

DOMI 12.0.1 FEATURES: DOMINO ONLINE MEETING INTEGRATION

Q: Can I integrate MS Teams and Zoom into Notes 12.0.1 calendar at the same time? 

A: Yes, however when hosting a meeting you will need to decide which meeting platform you want to use for that meeting.

Q: Are other online meetings such as Teamviewer, RingCentral, or Google Meet be integrated in DOMI? 
A: DOMI is open-source. You can add support for more vendors here.

Q: Regarding DOMI, do you need a new token for each meeting? 

A: No, the token only needs to be obtained once. Based on the platform used, it expires 90 days after the last time it was used.

Q: Will DOMI be included in the new release version’s repository, or do we need to have separate exe for it?

A: Customers with Notes 11.0.1 need to apply a mail template modification. Starting with Notes 12.0.1 those improvements are already part of the mail template shipping with the product.

Q: Is there any plan to extend DOMI to also be used in Verse on-premises and Traveler? 

A: Yes, it is on the roadmap for Verse Web and expected to be delivered next year.

Q: Is DOMI a user self-configuration only, or is a global configuration for a specific meeting service possible? 

A: The meeting services can be configured (enabled/disabled) by the administrator.

PROJECT RESTYLE

Q: Is “Project Restyle” available for all users? 

A: Not yet, but if you like it, please vote for it here.

Q: Does the restyler work for Domino apps developed in early versions? e.g. v7, v8, v9? 

A: Yes, the main purpose is to quickly update the look and feel of applications that were developed in previous versions. It even works for apps developed in V3.

Q: If you restyle a database, is this compatible with older versions of HCL Domino? 

A: Yes, the design that is applied is using standard technologies that are compatible with any supported version of Domino.

SECURITY AND BACKUP

Q: Does Domino 12 have multifactor authentication?

A: Yes, Domino 12 supports two factor authentication. TOTP is the supported standard. Read here for more details.

Q: For security, does Notes client support 2-factor / multi-factor authentication?

A: The Notes ID file itself is already a two-factor authentication. (You need to have the ID file and know the password.) 2FA (TOTP) is available in Domino for web applications, and we are working on TOTP 2FA support for Notes clients. Vote for this idea for Notes client.

Q: We are currently testing domino 12.0.1 for MFA. We are using the Authy App as the authenticator to authorize web login. Will you have any HCL web authenticator apps available in near future?

A: Since we are using TOTP based on RFC6238 there is no need for an HCL branded 2FA app. Any existing app which supports this standard will work.

Q: Are there options for two-factor authentication using Phone/SMS code? 

A: You can get SMS 2FA support from business partners like Cyone.

Q: In previous versions, the way to install SSL licenses was done through OpenSSL and KYRTOOL. Is the way to apply SSL keys still the same in v12 version? 

A: SSL certs is now much easier with the new Certificate Manager that is built into Domino. See this article for details.

Q: Are there any plans for an external caution warning for email users to recognize external threats or spoofing emails? 

A: Yes. Vote here and receive a notification when its available.

Q: Any chance of implementing blockchain framework within Domino security in upcoming releases?  

A: Vote for this idea.

Q: Is there any third-party backup solution supported by Domino 12.0.1?

A: Yes, there are several vendors who backup solutions for Domino. If you can’t find one to your liking, start with the integrated Domino Backup and hook it up to your existing solution. Read more here.

MAIL

Q: Any news on the Domino Open Mail client strategy?

A: We are working on it and expect to share a clearer timeline in the coming few months.

Q: When are we going to see support for Apple Mail (as a supported mail client for Traveler)?

A: Apple Mail (iOS) is already supported for Traveler. Support for other mail clients will be part of the ‘OpenMail’ initiative.

Q: Can HCL Verse be configured to be my default email client? 

A: Yes!

Q: When is Domino 12.0.1 available with DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail)? 
A: It is currently available.

Q: I’ve heard about a Notes Client in the future build on Electron. Is this true, and can you give us some insight on this please? 

A: In addition to the Notes Client, we have released HCL Nomad Web. A client that provides the functionality of Notes within a web browser with no plugins to be installed. Read here for more details or to try it out.

OTHER DOMINO FEATURES: NOMAD, HEI, DESIGNER AND MORE

Q: Can we use HCL Nomad with v12?

A: Absolutely, YES!

Q: Is Nomad available on SoFy?

A: No, but you can try Nomad by using the Nomad Sandbox here.

Q: Will there be a Linux client? 

A: There are no plans for a native client on Linux, however you can use HCL Nomad Web, which is a progressive web app (PWA) on Linux.

Q: Is there a scope for other OS platforms or does HCL emphasize more to browser / mobile-based application development running on Domino Servers? 

A: Major operating systems and platforms are supported for client, server, mobile and browser. You have the full freedom of choice!

Q: I use Enterprise Integrator v11, which is not compatible with Domino v12. How can I leverage the new v12 features (i.e., Nomad Web) while also running the critical HEI piece we use for many of our applications? 

A: We have just released a new version of Enterprise Integrator 12.0.1. Note that it is not part of your Domino license but is included in Domino Volt.

Q: Do you plan to add Bootstrap 5 support for Xpages? 

A: Yes, vote for this idea to be notified on updates

Q: Is it possible to only show field values in the properties box to managers and designers and not to every user? Hiding the design is possible, but it also makes debugging more complicated. 

A: We agree on this enhancement. Please vote for this idea.

Q: Is there an update for Domino Designer?

A: Please add your ideas for improvement here.

Q: Is there a community edition of Domino Designer v12 to try it out? 

A: There is no longer a community edition. For a trial license please contact your HCL sales representative or use our Nomad sandbox for testing.

Q: Are there any updates in the Domino Designer client? 

A: Yes, a new Domino Designer 64bit is available with more features. Read here for details.

Q: Will there be an admin or designer client for MacOS?

A: You get to help decide! Vote for this idea here.

Q: Is the new “Notes_Designer_Admin_12.0.1_Win_English.exe” 64-bit, or still 32-bit?

A: Both 32bit client and a 64bit client are now available on HCL Software License & Download Portal.

Q: When will DCT get an update for definition rules in Template 12?

A: Definitions are being updated at present. An improved DCT version will be provided soon. Vote for this idea to receive a notification when it’s done:

Q: Does 9.0.1FP10 run under W2K16? 

A: Yes, for details see the system requirements for Domino v9.0.1FP10. However, it is highly recommended to upgrade to a newer version of Domino

Q: Does v12.0.1 support Windows 2022? 

A: Yes, Domino v12.0.1 supports Windows Server 2022.

Q: Is Microsoft ending support for MS Windows 2016 in Jan 2022? 

A: Yes, please see the documentation here.

Q: What is the status of Domino Rest API?

A: Domino Rest API is currently in beta.

Q: What is the next major step you have for Domino in 2022?  

A: The next milestone is Domino v12.0.2. In addition, the next major version is also being planned! Stay tuned.

TRAINING

Q: Is there any free training on setting up Domino and how to use it from scratch? 

A: Yes, training is available on the HCL Software Academy. More training will be coming soon!

Q: We have new engineers interested in Domino admin training, where can they start? 

A: We’re excited to have new engineers join our community! A good place to start is the HCL Software Academy, check out resources such as knowledge articles, product documentation, and the ideas portal here, and we even have a book on Domino 12 administration (in German) available on Amazon.

OTHER

Q: Where I can find an HCL Domino t-shirt?  

A: Ask your friendly HCL representative or join one of the next conferences, e.g. https://engage.ug/

Q: Did you know that NCUG showed cool Domino-based solutions that look great? Check them out here.

A: Thanks for sharing, amazing content indeed!

My wife and I wanted a new kitchen — even though our ten-year-old appliances were high-end Subzero and Wolf that we acquired when we bought the house last year. So, we paid a ton of money for the most modern and popular replacement appliances that money could buy, and we could control by apps on our phones — and, of course, are Alexa connected.  Two months later, our fridge broke, and when the repairman (after waiting three weeks) came over, he said with a smile, “this kind of stuff does not break with the older ones.” I also smiled because the day before, I had joined HCL and was going to be able to work again on one of the classic technologies of the world — Domino. Another kind of “old stuff” that just doesn’t break. 

I want to be clear, I’m not a nostalgic person when it comes to tech (I do get nostalgic, however, when it comes to people, and over the years I’ve worked with some of the smartest there are.  If you think you are a ten, surround yourself by twelves, I always say.) To demonstrate this, I first worked for many years at Binary Tree, which was a top partner to IBM and helped organizations adopt Lotus (which would later become Domino) for automating their business processes. Once Domino stopped being innovated and invested in, I moved over to Microsoft when Office 365 came on the scene. I probably helped migrate millions of people away from Domino and onto Office 365. After getting many people for years to adopt Domino, I then made a living literally getting people off it. This wasn’t how it should have had to be! 

Frankly, for years, I have tried to find a replacement for Lotus/Domino.  I was like Indiana Jones looking for the Holy Grail.  As time and technology progressed, the words, “low code” and “no code” started popping up onto the scene from companies such as Mendix and Outsystems.  Other players more on the no-code side also appeared, such as Airtable and Formstack.  IMHO, I think that Airtable is an amazing tool and wish that our previous Domino owner could have created exactly the same thing. 

Even though Airtable is an uber spreadsheet on steroids, it is still not Domino.  Frankly, I have concluded that nothing is.  Nothing compares to what Domino can do. That is why companies are still running it, producing products, helping people, and making money.  Ok, it sounds like I am pushing Domino, well, maybe a little.  How could I not?  Don’t you smile if someone asks you what your first car was?   

This is the first installment in a new blog series, called “Henry’s Hot Seat. The Low-Code Lowdown,” which will delve into the low-code/no-code market and the products that support that market — providing cost-benefit analyses, risk analyses, and opinions on security, market trends, and the massive digital transformation companies are experiencing due to the pandemic. And, I will show you why Domino still dominates after 30+ years.  

And I will talk about the low-code companies that are out there, such as Mendix and Outsystems. And I’m going to ask you tough (but basic) questions like: If you think that Domino locks you in and constrains you … why the heck would you want to go with those guys?  I’ll put that question another way in my next blog: “You Want to Migrate from Domino to Outsystems? I Have a Ford Pinto to Sell You (Or, for you Millennials, Let’s Talk About Solarwinds).”

For over 25 years I have built, administered, and re-engineered thousands of Domino applications. We are now engaging customers and providing guidance on how to modernize these business applications, extending their investment in proven technologies, and doing so in a manner that will not break budgets. 

Why Modernize?

Modernizing applications goes hand in hand with the digital transformation happening in our world today. It provides for greater agility, mobile access, a modern user experience, and a future-ready platform. You must be thinking “how can it be possible for all of those to lead to a reduction in cost?” Not only will modernization do just that, but there is a compelling opportunity to increase the ROI and agility for your applications as well. Modernization extends the lifespan of applications while taking advantage of new technical frameworks, modern programming languages/technology stacks, and infrastructure platforms. Add in the capabilities of the cloud, and we can accomplish all of this while at the same time providing increased efficiency, agility and scalability for future enhancements to applications. And do not forget about the user experience. I have seen firsthand the value modernized applications bring by providing tools that give valuable time back so more can be done with our day. When done correctly, application modernization will take this to a whole new level by adding more flexibility, more functionality and more time for all users.

One of the most important things I have learned is that modernization does not equate to rewriting your applications from scratch. Existing applications contain valuable data, business rules, processes and back-end system integration that must in some form remain in place when deciding on your path to application modernization. These applications are investments that provide underlying cost savings and finely tuned efficiencies that are not easily measured or seen – until you try to replicate that on another platform. Unfortunately, many companies invest down the modernization path only to find it much more difficult and expensive than they initially thought. Taking advantage of what is currently in place is crucial in keeping costs down and minimizing disruptions in your journey to modernization. Having to recreate or losing mission critical features, efficiencies, and already proven application functions must be avoided.

One last, especially important item…. Mobility, Mobility, Mobility! This is at the forefront of modernization. Having the ability to use applications anywhere and from any device is crucial. This is necessary, as being able to get even the simplest tasks done anytime, anywhere, is one of if not the biggest benefit to modernization. It is difficult to rationalize or recommend any application modernization plan without it.

Modernization Expertise: What I have learned

Almost all of my customers have solicited estimates for their modernization aspirations. Some have been guided towards moving to a new platform, or re-writing and re-building apps. In every case they are shocked and dismayed at how large and expensive an effort it turns out to be — and often the effort doesn’t even replicate or improve their existing functionality. Many of these estimates include multi-year engagements where business needs will inevitably change during the modernization process. Still, many proceed down this path, often at significant expense, and only then do they become open to the value of simply modernizing their existing investment to bring it into the modern era. Along with the obvious development costs, IT leaders are tasked with taking into consideration the inevitable ongoing administration and application upkeep. Any modernization solution needs to alleviate all of this and be affordable in both short term and long term. Oh, and by the way, just to make it even more difficult, being able to connect to and integrate with disparate apps and web services from different vendors on different platforms is essential.

After thinking all of this through I asked myself, “how can we take a rapid design environment and rock-solid run-time like Notes and Domino and turn those strengths into modern, browser-based and mobile solutions for our customers?” As detailed in this previous blog entry, the economic benefits and ROI of Domino are well-documented. However, with all the tools and technologies in the market over the last few years, customers often become overwhelmed in selecting and adopting an entirely new platform, let alone having to recreate years of business logic, processes and data. What many do not realize is that when properly used, the modern Domino server already has these tools that can provide for this new modern environment.

Personally, my focus is always to provide solutions that are quick, impactful, and at the lowest cost possible. I take into consideration the impact on the users, as familiarity and processes need to be accounted for as well. Any modernization offering must enable customers to modernize in a swift, cost-effective way that provides minimal impact on users and IT staff. The main requirements of app modernization we produced were: 

• Modern, browser-based user experience 
• Mobile ready: access anytime, anywhere, and from any device
• Flexible deployment (on premises or customers cloud of choice)
• Future ready and scalable
• Low code options to easily deploy new business functionality
• Ability to integrate existing data
• Ease of onboarding
• High user acceptance, low user impact
• Ability to integrate via APIs with other applications and web services 
   

Modernization: What we have built

We leveraged all those attributes and created a platform that will modernize Domino applications. That platform is called Compass. With Compass we are now able to provide a modernization path for our customers that takes advantage of existing design, and brings applications into the modern browser and mobile. And modernizing with Compass has proven to be 70%-80% less in time and cost when comparing with other platforms. Compass takes existing Domino applications and: 

• Modernizes the UI into both web and mobile experiences (see below) 
• Eliminates the need for the Notes client 
• Redesigns your application layout and flow, if desired 
• Moves the Domino environment to the cloud of your choice or on-premises 
• Provides a rapid, low-cost modernization
• Integrate HCL Domino Volt and HCL Volt MX applications in the Compass Workspace

Guiding your organization

App Modernization is an essential element of the digital transformation. There are so many different routes one can choose. But do not get overwhelmed. We as service providers must assist our customers in choosing what is the most cost-effective way forward with app modernization. Keeping in mind all the above, and trying to take advantage of existing processes will make this path easier to navigate. As you and your teams work through this process, I hope that sharing my experiences and insight will assist in what you can look for in taking this step in the most cost-effective way. 

Feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss your environment and where I can help.