posted 09-30-2006 10:38 AM         

Some EZGUI 4 fit-and-finish issues that caught my attention:

.PRZ files are not associated with the Visual Designer during installation. I associated them manually, and have no problems launching VD with a click on the project files.

Dialog accelerator keys aren't even on Yes/No message boxes. (And I'm prompted to save my form even when I've not changed anything.)

Menu shortcut keys! Even the standard new, open and save file shortcuts are missing. How about Ctrl-S to save a form, Shift-Ctrl-S to save the project. Generate application also needs one.

Please don't let my suggestions detract from the audacity of what you've accomplished in minimizing developer contact with the API.

posted 09-30-2006 03:39 PM         

Yes, you can manually set the file association using Explorer, which I suggest all do !

I didn't go through and try to add accelerator keys for all the common tasks many programs use them for. I'll see what I can add later. I do though suggest turning off the Save Dialog (use toolbar on Project Palette window) and let the designer use the AutoSave feature. This is my preference, since you can quickly move from form to form, otherwise you have to says yes every time the form is closed.

It was too much trouble to try to track whether a form has been changed before displaying a save dialog ! I would have to test a bunch of events in the designer just to make sure you haven't done anything that would change the form. It was simply easier to just always request the form be saved. This is why I prefer the autosave mode ! This way you never have to worry about saving a form and you can move more quickly between forms.

posted 09-30-2006 05:30 PM         

quote:

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... where with the manual system, you still have the option to say NO.

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It should be noted that Chris added a 'bookmark' feature into the designer. I gather that you can set a book mark and then 'roll back' to that point later on if you want to un-do a lot of changes. Personally, I find this awkward and I rarely remember to use it when I need it, so that is why, under the current design, I prefer to decide when to save changes or not. If you find the bookmark feature usable however, it is a good alternative, especially if you leave auto-save on.

posted 10-01-2006 06:10 AM         

Another illustration: the Build Multi-Form Dialog, which has 2 command buttons with Alt-B accelerators: Browse Form Files and Build Application. Of course, Microsoft would call it a feature: "Now with 2x as many commands assigned to each key!!!"

I understand your explanation for always prompting to save forms. I've answered similar customer questions about my apps.

Once again, Chris, very impressive concept and execution.

Ron

[This message has been edited by Ron Z (edited 10-01-2006).]