Software framework for web-based applications

A Web application framework for creating Web-based applications is described. The framework includes an abstract command tag that predefines at least some generic Web application activities. When using the framework, one specifies at least one custom action that is desired to be performed by a Web application under development. This includes creating a Java class that extends the abstract command tag for providing execution logic for the (at least one) custom action, in addition to pre-existing logic that supports the (at least some) generic Web application activities, thereby creating a corresponding customized command tag that is capable of being embedded within a Web page. The customized command tag includes the ability to conditionally execute the specified (at least one) custom action based on run-time conditions. The customized command tag is embedded in a Web page of the Web application. During run-time operation of the Web application, the customized command tag is invoked for conditionally executing the specified (at least one) custom action based on run-time conditions.