3rd Party Application Framework - Which One ?

[csr]

I am about ready to purchase a 3rd party application framework. Promatrix, Maxframe, etc ...


I do not use the database container feature of VFP and do not wish to.

Any opinions from those that have taken the plunge ?


Don

 

[csr]

Sorry ... forgot to mention that I am an experienced developer and have written my own framework that is ok but thought I might take the step to a truly professional framework and see what it is all about.

Don

 

[wgcs]

Hi Don,

Such a big question!! With a different answer for each application:

http://fox.wikis.com/wc.dll?Wiki~EvaluatingFrameworks

http://fox.wikis.com/wc.dll?Wiki~FrameworkFeatureChart

http://fox.wikis.com/wc.dll?Wiki~CategoryFrameworks

Our In-house framework meets our needs so well that we still haven't gone with any of the commercial frameworks...

- Bill

Get the best answers to your questions -- See FAQ481-4875.

 

[RickSchummer]

The best way to answer this question is to understand the type of application you are going to create. For instance, if this was a web based app I might recommend WebConnect or AFP, desktop apps could be MaxFrame, Visual FoxExpress, etc.

You mentioned a key requirement with no DBC, some frameworks rely on DBCs for transaction processing (like VFE).

I would hit the major framework vendors and download their sample apps, and help files to review the requirements/expectations. You can review the Wiki topics which are excellent, then call the vendors and discuss your situation to see if there is a fit.

Good luck.

_RAS

http://www.whitelightcomputing.com

VFP MVP

 

[craigsboyd]

csr,

A bit off-topic, but since you brought it up...

Why do you not wish to use the database container?

[sub]craig1442@mchsi.com[/sub][sup]

"Whom computers would destroy, they must first drive mad." - Anon​

[/sup]

 

[csr]

Well, the main reason is the difficulties associated with making structural changes to the tables after the software has been operational at a customer site.

With my FREE TABLE systems, I have developed a process whereby I only need to redefine the table structures within a system structures table and rebuild the application. Then the tables are automatically restructured when the new executable is executed for the first time on site. Absolutely no headache.

With a database, it is much more complicated. I know there exists software (I forget the name of it) that helps with database management but even that is not simple.

There are also numerous other difficulties associated with the use of databases which I will not go into at this time.
And heaven help you if the database container gets corrupted.

The bottom line is that I have no compelling reason to use a database container so I don't use them. Simple.




Don

 

[mcollins]

One thing I liked about Visual MaxFrame (written by Drew Speedie) was they have an open support forum where anyone can read users questions, post their own questions, and even search the archives.

http://vmpdiscussion.visionds.com/default.asp

Mike

 

[mspratt]

Compelling reason to use a DBC: Views

You can still keep your tables free.

Regards,

Mike

 

[RandyBosma]

<i>I know there exists software (I forget the name of it) that helps with database management but even that is not simple.</i>

Stonefield Database Toolkit. I've found the design side alone is well worth the price. Integration into MaxFrame applications is well-documented and seamless.