Requirements
 

Requirements will vary depending on individual project deliverables.  The exact combination of hardware, software and features depend on specific client needs.  Most organizations will already have a network deployed, and in many cases, a database platform such as SQL server, Oracle, etc.  If the system that is required is not a large system or an enterprise level system, then requirements may be nothing more than using a Microsoft® Windows and Office platform. 

We always look to utilize your existing IT infrastructure to the maximum extent possible and to minimize your organization’s overall capital outlay.  For example, if we need to create a large client/server software system that requires a fairly large database back end and your organization does not have a dedicated database server such as enterprise edition SQL server, then we could build the software and connect a Microsoft® MSDE 2000 desktop engine database.  MSDE is a free, redistributable, lighter desktop version of SQL server that can be used for client applications requiring an embedded database.  In fact, there are seven editions of SQL Server to accommodate different size organizations and requirements, so many times, there are affordable alternatives to purchasing the enterprise edition of SQL. MySQL is the most popular open source database server and could also be used in lieu of a dedicated SQL server for a very modest licensing fee.  If your organization then decides to purchase the enterprise edition of SQL server in the future, it would be quite easy to migrate the application if necessary.  

If the software that we create does require a large dedicated database such as enterprise edition SQL, then your organization also needs to consider existing system requirements.  You must consider the all-in costs of having the IT infrastructure to support the application being built.  For most companies that are “up-to-date” with their technology infrastructure, system requirements will already be met.

If your organization has Windows 2000 with Internet Information Services 5.0, then you have a fully web-aware operating system with a built-in web server. This platform includes the critical application development services needed to build integrated, component-based applications that take advantage of the Internet for web-based solutions.  If you were to add SQL Server 2000, you would have everything required to start back-end server development.

For client/server applications where the front end is created within Visual Basic, as a minimum, a copy of the VB runtime library (MSVBVM60.DLL) must be installed on each computer using the software. However it is very rare these days to find a Windows machine that does not have this library installed.  If highly sophisticated reporting from the application is required, then Crystal Reports might be used or the SQL Server reporting services that are now included with SQL server.  Please contact us if your organization uses an open source platform or an Apple platform so that we may discuss your needs to determine whether we can help.  Visit our training page to find out more about software training requirements.