Re: Oracle Forms VS Java

Daniel Frechette <daniel_at_multipro.ca> wrote in message news:<Xns938AEE055E289danielmultiproca_at_207.35.177.134>...
> Good day,
>
> I'm currently working on a project to modify an existing system that was
> developed in Oracle Forms 4.5 (Web-enabled) and Java (J2EE, JRun, Oracle
> DB). I now have a new application to develop but I don't know if it should
> be done in Forms or Java. The new application has to be light and
> accessible through a Web browser. I'm trying to assess the pros and cons of
> both approaches but I know very little about Forms. Can anyone tell me what
> are the TRUE ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES of Oracle Forms? Does anyone know
> of any studies or architecture comparisons that might be helpful?
>
> Thank you,
> Daniel

Hi Denial,

Java gives you two possibilities to create user interface:

1. HTML interface generated by JSP 
2. Windows Swing that can be run as applet in browser. 
3. Windows Swing that can be run as installed application

Oracle Forms gives one possibilities for web: 1. Applet in browser window (size is big).

So if you need HTML interface you can't use Forms.

If you decide that applets is OK for your system you should decide what approach is better.

Forms is more high-level tools then Java. But it is very specific. It's depended on PL/SQL and set of interface triggers. User interface on forms usually is poor. You don't need think about network communication and database. But you also don't have control for it. Interaction with operating system is also poor.

On the contrary Java depended on well-known standards and give you full control on program. It is allow you write perfect GUI. But it is more low level and time to start with Java is higher.

I think Java is better and flexible solution for most application. And Oracle supports Forms mainly for old systems.

Regards,
Michael
Brainbench MVP for Oracle Programming
http://www.brainbench.com Received on Fri May 30 2003 - 09:37:38 CDT