Distributed middleware technologies, such as CORBA can enable finite element software to be used in a more flexible way. Adding functionality is possible without the need for recompiling client code. Transfer of data can be done directly, without the need for intermediate input and output files. The CORBA software components can be easily configured and distributed tranparently over the network. A sample structural mechanics code, implemented in C++ is used to illustrate these concepts. Some future directions, such as placing CORBA enabled finite element software on HPC centres are also discussed.