Another solution is to use parameterized value bindings feature of the new JBoss EL. For example, the following expression returns the string length: #{testFromType.length()} You can also use other string methods like substring(). See the new "Expression language enhancements" documentation in CVS. I don't need to use JSTL functions anymore. tazman View the original post : http://www.jboss.com/index.html?module=bb&op=viewtopic&p=4052464#... Reply to the post : http://www.jboss.com/index.html?module=bb&op=posting&mode=reply&a...