Nicolas Fränkel operates as a successful Java and Java EE software architect and developer with more than 12 years experience in consulting for different clients. He also practices a trainer and a part-time lecturer in different French and Swiss higher education institutions, so as to broaden his understanding of software craftsmanship. Nicolas has also been a speaker at miscellaneous Java-related conferences in Europe, such as Devoxx Belgium, JEEConf, JavaLand and some Java User Groups and is the author of Learning Vaadin and Learning Vaadin 7. Nicolas's interests in software are broad, ranging from Rich Client Application, to open source software and build automation through Quality Processes, including diverse flavors of testing. When not tinkering with new products or writing blog posts, he may be found practicing sports: running, swimming, squashing and skiing at the moment. Other leisure activities include reading novels, motorcycles, photography, and drawing, not necessarily in that order.