Extending the ESRI API

[RichardWatson]

I have an application for which I want to publish out a REST API.  The application heavily uses Arc* and I was wondering how to approach the problem. 

In particular, should I try to add to the ESRI REST API or publish my own independent API out?

What I have is more of a toolkit so having the ESRI APIs available to my users is of high value.  This might contrast with an application which is more focused.

If I want to extend the ESRI API then how do I go about doing so?

Thanks!

[KeyurShah]

We'll be adding support for REST-enabled Server Object Extensions (SOEs) at the next beta. The SOE that you write will be required to implement a particular interface. The REST handler will then call into methods defined on that interface for exposing various resources and operations.

With this, your custom functionality will be accessible through the REST API. It will also be viewable in the Services Directory.

[RichardWatson]

Sounds great!

Any idea what the timeline for beta 2 is?  I would just like to get some idea of when this might be.

Thanks.

[RaviNarayanan]

It is currently scheduled for end of Jan 2010.

thanks
Ravi