Next: Terminology Up: Introduction Previous: Introduction

# Interface builders

A frequently chosen way to get a more flexible handling of the design and implementation of a graphical user interface is the use of graphical interface builders. These tools usually provide access to a certain widget set. The development of applications is supported by features like:

- Widget creation.
  The different widget types can be inserted into the resulting interface by moving (dragging) them into the workspace.
- Widget parameterization.
  For the various widget types, special configuration dialogs give access to the widget parameters (like colors, fonts etc.).
- Widget layout.
  The layout of the widgets can be modified interactively.
- Implementation of application functionality.
  Code implementing the functionality of the program can be written and bound to widgets.

XF is a programming environment especially designed for Tcl/Tk applications. Although the use of Tcl/Tk is very simple, there is a big number of options and commands that have to be mastered. Using a program like XF to compose and configure the interface of an application can reduce the development time, and result in better code. Currently, XF

only supports the development of Tcl/Tk based applications, but it is possible that future versions also support other widget sets and/or languages. The main design aims of XF

are:

- Rapid construction of interactive user interfaces.
  The interface designer can access all widgets by selecting them from a list. Layout and configuration of widgets are supported by interactive dialogs. The implementation and binding to the interface of the application's functionality are supported as well. These features cover the basic functionality that each interface builder usually has.
- Immediate access to the resulting interface.
  The work space where the application is built is the resulting application (interface and functionality). At any point of the construction, the user can use and test the functionality of the resulting application immediately. This is possible due to the great flexibility of Tcl/Tk .
- High flexibility for later changes.
  All aspects of the resulting application (interface and functionality) can be changed with XF , or by editing the generated Tcl -code directly. This includes the possibility to merge external Tcl/Tk code into the application.
- Support for group development.
  Complex programs are very often developed in groups. While the interface is developed by one part of the group it can happen that the functionality of the program is developed by another part. Much attention was given to the support of distributed development.
- Support for standard interfaces.
  The development of complex dialogs and functionality is a time consuming task. To reduce the development time and to have a common interface style among different applications, XF supports the storing, retrieval and sharing of interface and function components.
- Easy working with XF .
  This means that the beginner gets enough support to be able to build an application, while the expert can manipulate every aspect of the resulting application if he wants to. It is possible to develop simple interfaces just by playing around with XF . This does not mean that users must or can only play around with XF , but it is not necessary to read thousands of pages to be able to use XF . For more complex programs, the user will need good planning, and careful study of the Tcl /Tk /XF related documentation.

Next: Terminology Up: Introduction Previous: Introduction