Conversions

So you have a DOS based program that you've used for years and it does everything you need but... it's time to move ahead! Most employees in offices today using modern word processing, spreadsheet and data handling programs lack productivity with the older text-based programs. Like so many of our clients, you have discovered there is much to be gained from using a windows-based, 32-Bit or 64-bit program with a Graphical User Interface (GUI) rather than the old-fashioned, 16-Bit text based system you are using now.

With the latest “Visual” languages available now and their broad functionality, it is less costly to convert your existing DOS programs to Windows than with previous languages and although this requires rewriting much of your existing code; conversion of your Clipper, FoxBASE and dBase programs to the Windows environment is easily managed and cost effective using modern languages like dBase Plus, Xbase++, Visual Basic and dQuery.

These newer languages not only provide outstanding performance in a standard multi-user office environment but function just as well in Internet, Intranet, Client-Server and SQL configurations with commercial databases, and some can even use the data files from other programs as if they were their own. Many can link with your existing Word Processor and Spreadsheet programs using OBDC so their functions are also available within the program. This means your program will be more expandable into different configurations and making it more adaptable to your future needs.

If modernizing your software to keep up with changing business and data handling requirements is important to you, please E-Mail us at: bonjoel@bonjoel.com with your questions and contact information.

by Joel Shapiro

Revised: August 11, 2009.