Migrating from 2.6 to 6.0?

[Apollo6]

I have been assigned to migrate a database from 2.6 to 6.0. Are there any significant issues that will need to be addressed for this to be a transparent change to the end user?
It is quit a large database that consist of hundreds of tables and forms. I will be assisted with a few other associates in this effort and would like to get some tips on the things to watch out for or plan for.

 

[rgbean]

While there are some "assisted" conversions from FP to VFP, most everyone will tell you that it's better, in the long run, to do a rewrite. The most useful information I got on migrating, came from MicroEndeavours, Inc. They have a self study course VF610 "FoxPro 2.x to Visual FoxPro Migration Manual"

http://www.microendeavors.com/training/default.asp,

choose "Self-Study" at the left, then down near the bottom of the page.

This includes a number "why's" and "how to's", as well as some useful utilities to assist in the process. One of their techniques allows a gradual transition using a mixed model, but there are some downsides as you might expect. Also, one utility can create forms from the running code - you don't even have to have "screens" (.SCX files) to convert them. For the price - $199 that last time I checked - you can't get better advice. (I have no connection with them, other than being a satisfied customer.)

Rick

 

[Raccoon]

I have to agree with Rick, it is better to do the rewrite. While no manager wants to hear that, you will save money in the long run. Also, that will allow you to take advantage of the OOP benefits of VFP.

While doing the rewrite, you can "cut and paste" code snippets as needed so it doesn't turn out to be a complete rewrite. I'm thinking mainly of the business rules/calculations portions of the code.

Good Luck. The last upgrade I was forced to do was scheduled as 2 months (not my schedule) and took 8.

 

[foxdev]

Ditto x 2. And it really, really, really helps if you have someone with significant FP2.6 and VFP experience to mentor you. Many of us have been through that pain (learning curve) and had to break some old habits; having someone to help you for the first few weeks could save months of trial and error. Robert Bradley

http://www.lowcostprints.com

http://www.foxdev.com/

http://www.agrainofhope.org