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Custom Software and
Database Development

Walling Info Systems

Custom Programs to allow you to get more done in less time

Software Programming Technology

Most software programs can be divided into 4 different technology categories. These technologies each have different advantages and disadvantages, so it is important that you find the one that is right for you. These technologies will differ in terms of complexity, price, stability, ease-of use, and scalability.

Since I have worked with all 4 of the technologies explained below, you can be sure that I will use the one that is best for your needs and not try to fit you into one because it is the only one I know. Beware of any software developer trying to push you in the direction of one of these technologies or a specific development tool without understanding your needs first. Odds are that this is because they only know that one technology or tool.

If any of this does not make sense to you don't worry about it and either call me or email me for a free consultation. I will walk you through this. The only reason I have included this information is for those that have a good understanding of technology and would find this useful.

1. Desktop based Rapid Application

A desktop based rapid application is the most economical and is good for small database applications with only a few users. This technology is the least scalable (unable to expand) and requires each desktop to be upgraded when software upgrades are released. Typical of this type of application would be a MS Access based program.

2. Client-Server Application

A client server application can typically offer much better performance than a Rapid Application. It is more scalable (able to expand) than the rapid application and it is also more expensive. This type of application works well on a LAN, but not when there are multiple locations not connected by a LAN. Note that like the rapid application, any updates require someone to upgrade the program on every desktop.

These programs are typically built with a tool like VB6 and use a SQL based database such as SQL server. With the release of .NET by Microsoft, there is little need for this technology in new development as the Rich Client - Zero deployment technology has all of the advantages of this technology and none of the disadvantages. This technology will be relegated to legacy systems.

3. Web Browser based Application

Today it seems that everyone is big on web based programs. While these web-based applications are easy on the user, they take longer to develop. Due to browser incompatibility issues and inherent limitations on the technology, these applications tend to get very expensive for custom applications.

If your needs are simple or there is already a similar application to modify, this may be a good choice for you if you have many remote users or are trying to provide functionality to the millions of users on the Internet.

I am sure you have noticed how limited the functionlity is on most websites. Can you imagine if MS Word had been developed for the web instead of as a desktop application. I doubt it would have been as succesful because most people wouldn't want to wait between each action as the data is submitted to the server.

Please don't misunderstand my comments here, as I have nothing against web browser based applications. In fact, most of my recent programs have been web based. I am just trying to combat all of the hype out there today that suggests the only way to go is web browser based programs.

4. Rich Client - Zero Deployment

When Microsoft released .NET, they provided a means for allowing developers to create software programs that have a rich client interface like client server applications, yet are easy to distribute and can be accessed by remote users. Surprisingly, little is said of this technology as most of the hype centers around web browser based applications. This technology offers the benefits of stability, scalability, easy distribution, and rich client functionality.

The major downside is that many users won't yet have the .NET framework installed on their computers, so they will have a large (90MB) download before they can setup the program. Software developed with this technology is more expensive than a rapid application, but less expensive than pure web-browser based applications of the same functionality.