Object-oriented programming simplifies the job of the software engineer by integrating data with algorithms. Distributed software engineering is difficult, because data and algorithms are split across a communication medium. Prior frameworks address the representation of messages passing, but introduce problems by separating the specification of message data structures from the programs that operate on them. The Object-Oriented Distributed Semantic Services (OODSS) framework supports object-oriented design in distributed application software engineering by integrating message specification with the algorithms that provide services, supporting data abstraction. Services provided by application components are encapsulated by translation scopes that are integrated with, not separated from, the programming languages of software development. Dynamic dispatch of overridden methods in polymorphic message class instances facilitate engineering complex flows of control between distributed application components. The job of the programmer is simplified. Flexibility in message representation and network transport is promoted.