The so-called typesafe enum construct has gained popularity since its increased coverage in several publications and admittance into the Sun JDK implementation. But be warned: this tip shows that the construct isn't as safe as you might believe. (1,800 words; January 4, 2002)
Published in early 1997, "Java Tip 27: Typesafe Constants in C++ and Java" discussed how to create and use typesafe constants (enums) in both Java and C++. Since then, various JavaWorld articles have covered how to enhance this idiom's canonical form and probably more importantly, documented the problems related to serialization. In this Java Tip, Phil Bishop presents a simple abstract class that solves the main serialization issues for you. (650 words; January 24, 2003)
