47  1499 
peronally, I think it looked a little crowded, I tend to avoid using so many
lines to chop the form up.
Just My Opinion.
--
OHM ( Terry Burns ) * Use the following to email me *
Dim ch() As Char = "ufssz/cvsotAhsfbuTpmvujpotXjui/OFU".ToCharArray()
For i As Int32 = 0 To ch.Length - 1
ch(i) = Convert.ToChar(Convert.ToInt16(ch(i)) - 1)
Next
Process.Start("mailto:" & New String(ch))
--
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:Ob**************@TK2MSFTNGP14.phx.gbl... I am just about finished my first Visual Basic program. Yay!
Does anybody had any suggestions about improving the look of the
interface? I have read that programmers tend to have a cluttered display,
and would like to avoid this mistake.
I am most concerned with this form:
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown...properties.gif
However, if you have any thoughts about another facet of my program (or
web site, for that matter), I'm all ears!
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown/screens.cfm
Matthew
Every pair of eyes to look at it will probably have a different opinion.
Personally, I think it looks great--very well organized, options are easy to
spot.
--
Brian Schwartz
FishNet Components http://www.fishnetcomponents.com
Building better tools for developers - Be part of it!
Matthew,
I liked it.
I would however use the DateTimePicker to enter the time values. To use a
DateTime picker to enter your times set the following properties:
Format = Custom
CustomFormat = "hh:mm" (for hour:min)
CustomFormat = "mm:ss" (for min:sec)
ShowUpDown = True
I would expect the Browse button for the Sound File to be at the end of the
text box, not below it.
I normally include "..." at the end of buttons that show a second dialog
box, for example: Change Color..., Change Font..., Browse... and Show
Border...
If this is under VS.NET 2003, I would enable Themes by:
Setting the FlatStyle to System that supported it (labels, group boxes,
buttons).
Include the following in my MainForm:
Public Shared Sub Main()
Application.EnableVisualStyles()
Application.DoEvents()
Application.Run(New MainForm)
End Sub
Hope this helps
Jay
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:Ob**************@TK2MSFTNGP14.phx.gbl... I am just about finished my first Visual Basic program. Yay!
Does anybody had any suggestions about improving the look of the
interface? I have read that programmers tend to have a cluttered display,
and would like to avoid this mistake.
I am most concerned with this form:
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown...properties.gif
However, if you have any thoughts about another facet of my program (or
web site, for that matter), I'm all ears!
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown/screens.cfm
Matthew
Doh! CustomFormat = "hh:mm" (for hour:min)
Reviewing where I did this, you may want to consider using "HH:mm" for 24
hour hours & minutes. Which will cause 0 hours & 20 minutes to be displayed
as 00:20 instead of 12:20.
Also I used a property similar to:
Public Property TimeToEnd() As TimeSpan
Get
Return Me.dateTimePickerTimeToEnd.Value.TimeOfDay
End Get
Set(ByVal value As TimeSpan)
Me.dateTimePickerTimeToEnd.Value = DateTime.Today.Add(value)
End Set
End Property
Where the DateTime Picker itself is private & the property above is how I
get or set the value as a TimeSpan (a time interval), as you can see the
Property converts between a TimeSpan & DateTime as needed...
Hope this helps
Jay
"Jay B. Harlow [MVP - Outlook]" <Ja************@msn.com> wrote in message
news:eS**************@TK2MSFTNGP14.phx.gbl... Matthew,
I liked it.
I would however use the DateTimePicker to enter the time values. To use a
DateTime picker to enter your times set the following properties:
Format = Custom
CustomFormat = "hh:mm" (for hour:min)
CustomFormat = "mm:ss" (for min:sec)
ShowUpDown = True
I would expect the Browse button for the Sound File to be at the end of
the text box, not below it.
I normally include "..." at the end of buttons that show a second dialog
box, for example: Change Color..., Change Font..., Browse... and Show
Border...
If this is under VS.NET 2003, I would enable Themes by:
Setting the FlatStyle to System that supported it (labels, group boxes,
buttons).
Include the following in my MainForm:
Public Shared Sub Main()
Application.EnableVisualStyles()
Application.DoEvents()
Application.Run(New MainForm)
End Sub
Hope this helps
Jay
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:Ob**************@TK2MSFTNGP14.phx.gbl...I am just about finished my first Visual Basic program. Yay!
Does anybody had any suggestions about improving the look of the
interface? I have read that programmers tend to have a cluttered display,
and would like to avoid this mistake.
I am most concerned with this form:
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown...properties.gif
However, if you have any thoughts about another facet of my program (or
web site, for that matter), I'm all ears!
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown/screens.cfm
Matthew
Matthew,
Very nice.
As others already suggested I would use the datetimepicker and than with the
format option set to time and showupdown to true what gives you in my
opinion the best usage based on the culture settings of the system where it
is used.
I do not understand why there is an Apply in the datetime, when I have to
use that I mostly forget that forever and just click OK, so what is the
reason about that?
Than check your terms, your program will maybe not only be used in the
English zone. Therefore is English no problem because most who will use your
program will probably understand that. However I did think direct, what is
meant with "When to play sound" is that the duration of the sound or the
start time? (Now thinking it over I think the start time, however I am still
not sure of that)
I hope this adds a little bit?
Cor
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net>>I am just about finished my first
Visual Basic program. Yay! Does anybody had any suggestions about improving the look of the
interface? I have read that programmers tend to have a cluttered display,
and would like to avoid this mistake.
I am most concerned with this form:
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown...properties.gif
However, if you have any thoughts about another facet of my program (or
web site, for that matter), I'm all ears!
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown/screens.cfm
Matthew
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote I am just about finished my first Visual Basic program. Yay!
Does anybody had any suggestions about improving the look of the interface?
Right click on your desktop, and select Properties....
LFS
Larry,
I find his one nicer than the propertybox, even in contradiction with what I
wrote about the text explains this it more direct.
However can be a matter of taste.
:-)
Cor
"Cor Ligthert" <no************@planet.nl> wrote I find his one nicer than the propertybox, even in contradiction with what I
wrote about the text explains this it more direct.
However can be a matter of taste.
Yes, but...
The whole purpose of Windows is to give every application the
same look and feel so users do not have to learn new interfaces
for every program they run.
The same goes for the common dialogs. When applications need
a file name, they use the common dialog because the user will
be familiar with that interface. The same for colors, and fonts.
On that same theme, when applications use similar functionality,
they should try to provide similar interfaces so the user does not
need to learn differnt interfaces to do the same task in different
programs.
For more examples:
Right click on MyComputer and select Properties
Right click on the TaskBar and select Properties
Right click on clock in the system tray, and select Properties
Right click on any folder and select Properties
etc...
(Note Properties is the last item in those menus, even its
placement is consistant...)
They are all tabbed dialogs. And, considering 3 of the OP's
frames need Color and Font, the tabbed dialog could display
them as combo boxes, rather than buttons to call up yet
another dialog (see how Display Properties uses combos).
One other change I'd suggest is to call TextWindow1 "Header"
and TextWindow2 "Footer" since that is the function they display.
LFS
Terry,
By panels do you mean Group Boxes?
The groups boxes appear symmetrical left to right, however I don't know if
they need to be symmetrical top to bottom as that would give "white space"
in the bottom ones. Ergo I see a bigger problem with white space in the
bottom ones, verses the asymmetrical sizes he has now...
Are you expecting all 12 buttons to be the same size? Now that you mention
it I would partially expect the three along the bottom to be the same size.
However seeing as the first one is larger, followed by two the same size I
don't see a problem per se...
The Apply button in the Clock group box is hard to say, I would partially
expect it down by the Hide & Start buttons... Depending on does it: Apply
only apply the Time To End values, does it apply the Clock values, or does
it apply the entire dialog. Next you'll be suggesting that there should be four panels with different
coloured backgrounds and fairground music playing in the background !,
what happened to the 'Clear Landscape' Principle.
That comment does not warrant a response!
Hope this helps
Jay
"One Handed Man ( OHM - Terry Burns )" <news.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:uC**************@TK2MSFTNGP15.phx.gbl... His panels are not symmetrical, the buttons are different sizes, the
centre point is not centre and the whole thing is sunken, which gives an
odd appearance below the menu line, and it's too congested.
Next you'll be suggesting that there should be four panels with different
coloured backgrounds and fairground music playing in the background !,
what happened to the 'Clear Landscape' Principle.
;-))
PS : On the plus side, you dont have to move your mouse far to click a
button.
--
OHM ( Terry Burns ) * Use the following to email me *
Dim ch() As Char = "ufssz/cvsotAhsfbuTpmvujpotXjui/OFU".ToCharArray()
For i As Int32 = 0 To ch.Length - 1
ch(i) = Convert.ToChar(Convert.ToInt16(ch(i)) - 1)
Next
Process.Start("mailto:" & New String(ch))
--
"Jay B. Harlow [MVP - Outlook]" <Ja************@msn.com> wrote in message
news:eS**************@TK2MSFTNGP14.phx.gbl... Matthew,
I liked it.
I would however use the DateTimePicker to enter the time values. To use a
DateTime picker to enter your times set the following properties:
Format = Custom
CustomFormat = "hh:mm" (for hour:min)
CustomFormat = "mm:ss" (for min:sec)
ShowUpDown = True
I would expect the Browse button for the Sound File to be at the end of
the text box, not below it.
I normally include "..." at the end of buttons that show a second dialog
box, for example: Change Color..., Change Font..., Browse... and Show
Border...
If this is under VS.NET 2003, I would enable Themes by:
Setting the FlatStyle to System that supported it (labels, group boxes,
buttons).
Include the following in my MainForm:
Public Shared Sub Main()
Application.EnableVisualStyles()
Application.DoEvents()
Application.Run(New MainForm)
End Sub
Hope this helps
Jay
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:Ob**************@TK2MSFTNGP14.phx.gbl...I am just about finished my first Visual Basic program. Yay!
Does anybody had any suggestions about improving the look of the
interface? I have read that programmers tend to have a cluttered
display, and would like to avoid this mistake.
I am most concerned with this form:
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown...properties.gif
However, if you have any thoughts about another facet of my program (or
web site, for that matter), I'm all ears!
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown/screens.cfm
Matthew
Larry,
Basicly we agree of course, however I do not find that property box real
nice, it is only used by developpers. Maybe that is the reason for that. For
all other boxes we agree complete. (I write this often as well, by instance
when someone wants to change a common used box as the close box for
something else than to close)
Cor
"Larry Serflaten" <se*******@usinternet.com>
"Cor Ligthert" <no************@planet.nl> wrote
I find his one nicer than the propertybox, even in contradiction with
what I
wrote about the text explains this it more direct.
However can be a matter of taste.
Yes, but...
The whole purpose of Windows is to give every application the
same look and feel so users do not have to learn new interfaces
for every program they run.
The same goes for the common dialogs. When applications need
a file name, they use the common dialog because the user will
be familiar with that interface. The same for colors, and fonts.
On that same theme, when applications use similar functionality,
they should try to provide similar interfaces so the user does not
need to learn differnt interfaces to do the same task in different
programs.
For more examples:
Right click on MyComputer and select Properties
Right click on the TaskBar and select Properties
Right click on clock in the system tray, and select Properties
Right click on any folder and select Properties
etc...
(Note Properties is the last item in those menus, even its
placement is consistant...)
They are all tabbed dialogs. And, considering 3 of the OP's
frames need Color and Font, the tabbed dialog could display
them as combo boxes, rather than buttons to call up yet
another dialog (see how Display Properties uses combos).
One other change I'd suggest is to call TextWindow1 "Header"
and TextWindow2 "Footer" since that is the function they display.
LFS
LOL, Sorry jay I just couldnt resist it - Hook Line And Sinker !
Your need for perfection and superiority forced you to give as detailed an
answer as is possible whilst maintaining your dignity, pride and
professionalism.
Well Done !
Regards - Terry
--
OHM ( Terry Burns ) * Use the following to email me *
Dim ch() As Char = "ufssz/cvsotAhsfbuTpmvujpotXjui/OFU".ToCharArray()
For i As Int32 = 0 To ch.Length - 1
ch(i) = Convert.ToChar(Convert.ToInt16(ch(i)) - 1)
Next
Process.Start("mailto:" & New String(ch))
--
"Jay B. Harlow [MVP - Outlook]" <Ja************@msn.com> wrote in message
news:Oi**************@TK2MSFTNGP15.phx.gbl... Terry,
By panels do you mean Group Boxes?
The groups boxes appear symmetrical left to right, however I don't know if
they need to be symmetrical top to bottom as that would give "white space"
in the bottom ones. Ergo I see a bigger problem with white space in the
bottom ones, verses the asymmetrical sizes he has now...
Are you expecting all 12 buttons to be the same size? Now that you mention
it I would partially expect the three along the bottom to be the same
size. However seeing as the first one is larger, followed by two the same
size I don't see a problem per se...
The Apply button in the Clock group box is hard to say, I would partially
expect it down by the Hide & Start buttons... Depending on does it: Apply
only apply the Time To End values, does it apply the Clock values, or does
it apply the entire dialog.
Next you'll be suggesting that there should be four panels with different
coloured backgrounds and fairground music playing in the background !,
what happened to the 'Clear Landscape' Principle.
That comment does not warrant a response!
Hope this helps
Jay
"One Handed Man ( OHM - Terry Burns )" <news.microsoft.com> wrote in
message news:uC**************@TK2MSFTNGP15.phx.gbl... His panels are not symmetrical, the buttons are different sizes, the
centre point is not centre and the whole thing is sunken, which gives an
odd appearance below the menu line, and it's too congested.
Next you'll be suggesting that there should be four panels with different
coloured backgrounds and fairground music playing in the background !,
what happened to the 'Clear Landscape' Principle.
;-))
PS : On the plus side, you dont have to move your mouse far to click a
button.
--
OHM ( Terry Burns ) * Use the following to email me *
Dim ch() As Char = "ufssz/cvsotAhsfbuTpmvujpotXjui/OFU".ToCharArray()
For i As Int32 = 0 To ch.Length - 1
ch(i) = Convert.ToChar(Convert.ToInt16(ch(i)) - 1)
Next
Process.Start("mailto:" & New String(ch))
--
"Jay B. Harlow [MVP - Outlook]" <Ja************@msn.com> wrote in message
news:eS**************@TK2MSFTNGP14.phx.gbl... Matthew,
I liked it.
I would however use the DateTimePicker to enter the time values. To use
a DateTime picker to enter your times set the following properties:
Format = Custom
CustomFormat = "hh:mm" (for hour:min)
CustomFormat = "mm:ss" (for min:sec)
ShowUpDown = True
I would expect the Browse button for the Sound File to be at the end of
the text box, not below it.
I normally include "..." at the end of buttons that show a second dialog
box, for example: Change Color..., Change Font..., Browse... and Show
Border...
If this is under VS.NET 2003, I would enable Themes by:
Setting the FlatStyle to System that supported it (labels, group boxes,
buttons).
Include the following in my MainForm:
Public Shared Sub Main()
Application.EnableVisualStyles()
Application.DoEvents()
Application.Run(New MainForm)
End Sub
Hope this helps
Jay
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:Ob**************@TK2MSFTNGP14.phx.gbl...
I am just about finished my first Visual Basic program. Yay!
Does anybody had any suggestions about improving the look of the
interface? I have read that programmers tend to have a cluttered
display, and would like to avoid this mistake.
I am most concerned with this form:
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown...properties.gif
However, if you have any thoughts about another facet of my program (or
web site, for that matter), I'm all ears!
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown/screens.cfm
Matthew
> I do not understand why there is an Apply in the datetime, when I have to use that I mostly forget that forever and just click OK, so what is the
reason about that?
There is actually a reason.
The program counts down to a time. The countdown clock is running while
they change options.
If the time is 10:00 AM and they want to count down to 11:00 AM, they will
type 11 in the hour box.
The problem is, if the clock ticks before they hit the second "1" it changes
the time to count down to to 1:00 AM. This means it's done, so it closes
the program.
The datetimepicker might make the Apply button unnecessary, though. I'll
think about it.
Than check your terms, your program will maybe not only be used in the
English zone. Therefore is English no problem because most who will use
your program will probably understand that.
I had not thought about that before. My guess is it isn't an issue.
However, if it was an issue, how should I handle it?
Would I need to hire translators? Or make everything just pictures?
However I did think direct, what is meant with "When to play sound" is
that the duration of the sound or the start time? (Now thinking it over I
think the start time, however I am still not sure of that)
I agree with you; "When to play sound" is not very clear. It is intended to
mean the start time of the sound based on the countdown clock. So, a value
of 2:00 would make the sound start playing at two minutes 'till the event
start time (0:00 on the countdown clock).
Anybody know of a clearer way to present this?
Matthew
> His panels are not symmetrical
As in the GroupBoxes? I checked, and they are all 216px wide. Of course,
the top two are a different height from the bottom two. Is this a flaw in
your opinion? the buttons are different sizes
My goodness! I didn't even think about that. Of course, in Display
Properties there are four sizes of buttons scattered around. On the other
hand, eight of the thirteen are a standard size.
I'll see if I can make this a bit more standardized.
the centre point is not centre
I am not sure what you mean by that.
the whole thing is sunken, which gives an odd appearance below the menu
line
Oops! I was playing around with the FormBorderStyle and set it to Fixed3D.
I changed it to FixedSingle so it doesn't look "sunken" any more.
it's too congested.
Do you have a suggestion to make it look less congested?
what happened to the 'Clear Landscape' Principle.
Good question. This is my first client-side program, so consider me a
newbie. What is the Clear Landscape Principle? Do you have a link where I
could read about it?
Matthew
Mathew, this was simply a ruse to raise the hackles of Jay, it was purely a
mischeivous act on my behlf to lure him into an act of self defence. I do it
sometimes just for fun.
As far as the 'Clear Landscape' principle is concerned, I just made it up.
Jay is forever quoting books and I wanted to see if he would admit to not
knowing about this non existant principle.
I do think it is a little crowded, and personally I would not have all the
lines dividing up the form, but thats my personal opinion, other than that
it looks OK.
Regards - OHM :)))
--
OHM ( Terry Burns ) * Use the following to email me *
Dim ch() As Char = "ufssz/cvsotAhsfbuTpmvujpotXjui/OFU".ToCharArray()
For i As Int32 = 0 To ch.Length - 1
ch(i) = Convert.ToChar(Convert.ToInt16(ch(i)) - 1)
Next
Process.Start("mailto:" & New String(ch))
--
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:Og*************@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl... His panels are not symmetrical
As in the GroupBoxes? I checked, and they are all 216px wide. Of course,
the top two are a different height from the bottom two. Is this a flaw in
your opinion?
the buttons are different sizes
My goodness! I didn't even think about that. Of course, in Display
Properties there are four sizes of buttons scattered around. On the other
hand, eight of the thirteen are a standard size.
I'll see if I can make this a bit more standardized.
the centre point is not centre
I am not sure what you mean by that.
the whole thing is sunken, which gives an odd appearance below the menu
line
Oops! I was playing around with the FormBorderStyle and set it to
Fixed3D. I changed it to FixedSingle so it doesn't look "sunken" any more.
it's too congested.
Do you have a suggestion to make it look less congested?
what happened to the 'Clear Landscape' Principle.
Good question. This is my first client-side program, so consider me a
newbie. What is the Clear Landscape Principle? Do you have a link where
I could read about it?
Matthew
OHM,
Actually my initial thought was to using a tab control, where there are
either 2 to 4 tabs. Basically where each group box is its own tab, or
possible the top two group boxes are one tab, while the bottom two are a
second tab. I didn't initially offer it as I wasn't really seeing enough
info on each tab.
I could also see him offering a "preview" window something like the Themes
or Screen Saver tabs of Display Properties. A preview would work better with
tabs...
If I used "drop downs" instead of buttons to Dialog boxes as Larry seems to
be suggesting, I would be certain to still give an option to get to an
option to get to the Dialog box (Similar to how the Display Properties do).
Unfortunately I do not know where we can get the actual control the Display
Properties uses for color. On one of my apps I use a owner draw context menu
with an option to show the ColorDialog. Your need for perfection and superiority forced you to give as detailed an
answer as is possible
Is there something wrong with a need for perfection? :-P
I attempt to balance the need for perfection with getting the job done. I've
seen way too much code from developers (both beginner & advanced) whose only
priority was "getting the job done", which invariable leads to maintenance
nightmares, which would lead to even more bad coding mistakes... Which is
where I am finding a lot of truth (& similarity to my thinking) in Andrew
Hunt's & David Thomas' as book "The Pragmatic Programmer" from Addison
Wesley. http://www.pragmaticprogrammer.com/
FWIW: I agree with the need for perfection, however I seriously question an
actual need for superiority (although I'm sure my answers may come across
that way :-|). I actually just tend to attempt to cover all the options &
give enough info so that others can: 1. make an informed choice & 2. instill
a desire to learn more.
Hope this helps
Jay
"One Handed Man ( OHM - Terry Burns )" <news.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:eG**************@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl... LOL, Sorry jay I just couldnt resist it - Hook Line And Sinker !
Your need for perfection and superiority forced you to give as detailed an
answer as is possible whilst maintaining your dignity, pride and
professionalism.
Well Done !
Regards - Terry
--
OHM ( Terry Burns ) * Use the following to email me *
Dim ch() As Char = "ufssz/cvsotAhsfbuTpmvujpotXjui/OFU".ToCharArray()
For i As Int32 = 0 To ch.Length - 1
ch(i) = Convert.ToChar(Convert.ToInt16(ch(i)) - 1)
Next
Process.Start("mailto:" & New String(ch))
--
"Jay B. Harlow [MVP - Outlook]" <Ja************@msn.com> wrote in message
news:Oi**************@TK2MSFTNGP15.phx.gbl... Terry,
By panels do you mean Group Boxes?
The groups boxes appear symmetrical left to right, however I don't know
if they need to be symmetrical top to bottom as that would give "white
space" in the bottom ones. Ergo I see a bigger problem with white space
in the bottom ones, verses the asymmetrical sizes he has now...
Are you expecting all 12 buttons to be the same size? Now that you
mention it I would partially expect the three along the bottom to be the
same size. However seeing as the first one is larger, followed by two the
same size I don't see a problem per se...
The Apply button in the Clock group box is hard to say, I would partially
expect it down by the Hide & Start buttons... Depending on does it: Apply
only apply the Time To End values, does it apply the Clock values, or
does it apply the entire dialog.
Next you'll be suggesting that there should be four panels with
different coloured backgrounds and fairground music playing in the
background !, what happened to the 'Clear Landscape' Principle.
That comment does not warrant a response!
Hope this helps
Jay
"One Handed Man ( OHM - Terry Burns )" <news.microsoft.com> wrote in
message news:uC**************@TK2MSFTNGP15.phx.gbl... His panels are not symmetrical, the buttons are different sizes, the
centre point is not centre and the whole thing is sunken, which gives an
odd appearance below the menu line, and it's too congested.
Next you'll be suggesting that there should be four panels with
different coloured backgrounds and fairground music playing in the
background !, what happened to the 'Clear Landscape' Principle.
>;-))
PS : On the plus side, you dont have to move your mouse far to click a
button.
--
OHM ( Terry Burns ) * Use the following to email me *
Dim ch() As Char = "ufssz/cvsotAhsfbuTpmvujpotXjui/OFU".ToCharArray()
For i As Int32 = 0 To ch.Length - 1
ch(i) = Convert.ToChar(Convert.ToInt16(ch(i)) - 1)
Next
Process.Start("mailto:" & New String(ch))
--
"Jay B. Harlow [MVP - Outlook]" <Ja************@msn.com> wrote in
message news:eS**************@TK2MSFTNGP14.phx.gbl...
Matthew,
I liked it.
I would however use the DateTimePicker to enter the time values. To use
a DateTime picker to enter your times set the following properties:
Format = Custom
CustomFormat = "hh:mm" (for hour:min)
CustomFormat = "mm:ss" (for min:sec)
ShowUpDown = True
I would expect the Browse button for the Sound File to be at the end of
the text box, not below it.
I normally include "..." at the end of buttons that show a second
dialog box, for example: Change Color..., Change Font..., Browse...
and Show Border...
If this is under VS.NET 2003, I would enable Themes by:
Setting the FlatStyle to System that supported it (labels, group boxes,
buttons).
Include the following in my MainForm:
Public Shared Sub Main()
Application.EnableVisualStyles()
Application.DoEvents()
Application.Run(New MainForm)
End Sub
Hope this helps
Jay
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:Ob**************@TK2MSFTNGP14.phx.gbl...
>I am just about finished my first Visual Basic program. Yay!
> Does anybody had any suggestions about improving the look of the
> interface? I have read that programmers tend to have a cluttered
> display, and would like to avoid this mistake.
>
> I am most concerned with this form:
> http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown...properties.gif
>
> However, if you have any thoughts about another facet of my program
> (or web site, for that matter), I'm all ears!
> http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown/screens.cfm
>
> Matthew
>
>> Than check your terms, your program will maybe not only be used in the English zone. Therefore is English no problem because most who will use
your program will probably understand that.
When you do not want to use pictures, make than your terms as short as
possible
"Start" in the sound box says as much as "When to play sound"
Color says as much as Change Color
Hour and min are not needed so do not add it
Sound is enough instead of Sound file, it is showed with
..Wav File what is of course to play not to eat, so to play is not needed.
Text 1 says as much as Text Window 1
Text to display is double there and add nothing you can see that
However just my thought and not needed that you take it, just what came up
in my mind.
And now I was busy with this, I would make than from Show Border Hide border
a toglle button
Cor
OHM, Jay is forever quoting books and I wanted to see if he would admit to not
knowing about this non existant principle.
Who me? :-)
I hope you realize I read, then reread sections, of all the books I quote.
Also I normally only quote "theory" what I have found to work & attempt to
apply to my own develop efforts (refactoring, test driven development,
object thinking). Interesting enough a lot of the "theory" are things I
already do I just happen to come across the book that formalized it.
I quote "practice" for things that I have found to work (DateTime.Parse,
VB.Split vs String.Split, DataSets, Windows Forms).
I do think it is a little crowded, and personally I would not have all the
lines dividing up the form, but thats my personal opinion, other than that
it looks OK.
Jay
"One Handed Man ( OHM - Terry Burns )" <news.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:ed**************@TK2MSFTNGP10.phx.gbl... Mathew, this was simply a ruse to raise the hackles of Jay, it was purely
a mischeivous act on my behlf to lure him into an act of self defence. I
do it sometimes just for fun.
As far as the 'Clear Landscape' principle is concerned, I just made it up.
Jay is forever quoting books and I wanted to see if he would admit to not
knowing about this non existant principle.
I do think it is a little crowded, and personally I would not have all the
lines dividing up the form, but thats my personal opinion, other than that
it looks OK.
Regards - OHM :)))
--
OHM ( Terry Burns ) * Use the following to email me *
<<snip>>
Cor, Hour and min are not needed so do not add it
I agree!
Although I would consider keeping "hour & min" as the first "time" entered
is hour & minutes, while the second "time" is "min & second". Having each
labeled as such would provide consistency & help avoid confusing the user
with one labeled & the other not.
I would consider labeling the two "time" controls with either status bar
text of a tool tip, instead of labels on the screen.
Just a thought
Jay
"Cor Ligthert" <no************@planet.nl> wrote in message
news:eS**************@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl... Than check your terms, your program will maybe not only be used in the
English zone. Therefore is English no problem because most who will use
your program will probably understand that.
When you do not want to use pictures, make than your terms as short as
possible
"Start" in the sound box says as much as "When to play sound"
Color says as much as Change Color
Hour and min are not needed so do not add it
Sound is enough instead of Sound file, it is showed with
.Wav File what is of course to play not to eat, so to play is not needed.
Text 1 says as much as Text Window 1
Text to display is double there and add nothing you can see that
However just my thought and not needed that you take it, just what came up
in my mind.
And now I was busy with this, I would make than from Show Border Hide
border a toglle button
Cor
<!-- snipped great comments --> They are all tabbed dialogs.
Would you consider this an improvement to my layout?
Please note that my dialog is only slightly larger than the dialogs you
mentioned. Adding tabs would either leave lots of white space, or make it
smaller than the standard size.
And, considering 3 of the OP's
frames need Color and Font, the tabbed dialog could display
them as combo boxes, rather than buttons to call up yet
another dialog (see how Display Properties uses combos).
Good point. Does anybody have some example code for a colorpicker and
fontpicker combo box?
One other change I'd suggest is to call TextWindow1 "Header"
and TextWindow2 "Footer" since that is the function they display.
Hmm. That's true. Of course, they are windows and can be moved anywhere.
Would it be confusing to call a window to the lower right a Header? On the
other hand, somebody that's moving them in strange ways might be the savvy
type and less likely to be confused by the names.
Just thinking out loud on this point.
Matthew
> I would however use the DateTimePicker to enter the time values. To use a DateTime picker to enter your times set the following properties:
Format = Custom
CustomFormat = "hh:mm" (for hour:min)
CustomFormat = "mm:ss" (for min:sec)
ShowUpDown = True
I'll look in to the DateTimePicker. It originally turned me off because of
the arrow that shows the callender, but ShowUpDown = True handles that
nicely.
I would expect the Browse button for the Sound File to be at the end of
the text box, not below it.
True. I'll see if I can jockey it around some.
I normally include "..." at the end of buttons that show a second dialog
box, for example: Change Color..., Change Font..., Browse... and Show
Border...
Oops, I missed that one.
It looks like Microsoft messed up a little on this in Screen Saver and
Appearance tabs in Display Properties.
Of course, that's no excuse.
Larry suggested a combobox for picking fonts and colors.
The Desktop tab in Display Properties has a nice colorpicker.
If this is under VS.NET 2003, I would enable Themes by:
Setting the FlatStyle to System that supported it (labels, group boxes,
buttons).
Include the following in my MainForm:
Public Shared Sub Main()
Application.EnableVisualStyles()
Application.DoEvents()
Application.Run(New MainForm)
End Sub
I like this idea. Is there a programmatic way to change all my buttons and
stuff to flatstyle.system?
Matthew
> Mathew, this was simply a ruse to raise the hackles of Jay, it was purely a mischeivous act on my behlf to lure him into an act of self defence. I
do it sometimes just for fun.
OK, nice to have that cleared up. Your other posts I have read seemed to be
very good-natured, so I was truely wondering what caused you to speak this
way.
As far as the 'Clear Landscape' principle is concerned, I just made it up.
Jay is forever quoting books and I wanted to see if he would admit to not
knowing about this non existant principle.
:-)
I do think it is a little crowded, and personally I would not have all the
lines dividing up the form, but thats my personal opinion, other than that
it looks OK.
OK, I'll think about it some more.
Matthew
Matthew, I like this idea. Is there a programmatic way to change all my buttons
and stuff to flatstyle.system?
I normally set them in the designer, however you should be able to use
something like:
Protected Overrides Sub OnLoad(ByVal e As System.EventArgs)
MyBase.OnLoad(e)
UpdateFlatStyles(Me.Controls, FlatStyle.Standard)
End Sub
Private Sub UpdateFlatStyles(ByVal controls As
Control.ControlCollection, ByVal flatStyle As FlatStyle)
For Each control As control In controls
If TypeOf control Is Label Then
DirectCast(control, Label).FlatStyle = flatStyle
ElseIf TypeOf control Is ButtonBase Then
DirectCast(control, ButtonBase).FlatStyle = flatStyle
ElseIf TypeOf control Is GroupBox Then
DirectCast(control, GroupBox).FlatStyle = flatStyle
End If
If control.HasChildren Then
UpdateFlatStyles(control.Controls, flatStyle)
End If
Next
End Sub
I would consider including the above in my base form class, so all forms
benefit from the code.
Hope this helps
Jay
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:OS**************@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl... I would however use the DateTimePicker to enter the time values. To use a
DateTime picker to enter your times set the following properties:
Format = Custom
CustomFormat = "hh:mm" (for hour:min)
CustomFormat = "mm:ss" (for min:sec)
ShowUpDown = True
I'll look in to the DateTimePicker. It originally turned me off because
of the arrow that shows the callender, but ShowUpDown = True handles that
nicely.
I would expect the Browse button for the Sound File to be at the end of
the text box, not below it.
True. I'll see if I can jockey it around some.
I normally include "..." at the end of buttons that show a second dialog
box, for example: Change Color..., Change Font..., Browse... and Show
Border...
Oops, I missed that one.
It looks like Microsoft messed up a little on this in Screen Saver and
Appearance tabs in Display Properties.
Of course, that's no excuse.
Larry suggested a combobox for picking fonts and colors.
The Desktop tab in Display Properties has a nice colorpicker.
If this is under VS.NET 2003, I would enable Themes by:
Setting the FlatStyle to System that supported it (labels, group boxes,
buttons).
Include the following in my MainForm:
Public Shared Sub Main()
Application.EnableVisualStyles()
Application.DoEvents()
Application.Run(New MainForm)
End Sub
I like this idea. Is there a programmatic way to change all my buttons
and stuff to flatstyle.system?
Matthew
Doh!
I was testing on a sample that already had flat style set,
Change the following: UpdateFlatStyles(Me.Controls, FlatStyle.Standard)
TO:
UpdateFlatStyles(Me.Controls, FlatStyle.System)
Hope this helps
Jay
"Jay B. Harlow [MVP - Outlook]" <Ja************@msn.com> wrote in message
news:u1**************@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl... Matthew, I like this idea. Is there a programmatic way to change all my buttons
and stuff to flatstyle.system?
I normally set them in the designer, however you should be able to use
something like:
Protected Overrides Sub OnLoad(ByVal e As System.EventArgs)
MyBase.OnLoad(e)
UpdateFlatStyles(Me.Controls, FlatStyle.Standard)
End Sub
Private Sub UpdateFlatStyles(ByVal controls As
Control.ControlCollection, ByVal flatStyle As FlatStyle)
For Each control As control In controls
If TypeOf control Is Label Then
DirectCast(control, Label).FlatStyle = flatStyle
ElseIf TypeOf control Is ButtonBase Then
DirectCast(control, ButtonBase).FlatStyle = flatStyle
ElseIf TypeOf control Is GroupBox Then
DirectCast(control, GroupBox).FlatStyle = flatStyle
End If
If control.HasChildren Then
UpdateFlatStyles(control.Controls, flatStyle)
End If
Next
End Sub
I would consider including the above in my base form class, so all forms
benefit from the code.
Hope this helps
Jay
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:OS**************@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl... I would however use the DateTimePicker to enter the time values. To use
a DateTime picker to enter your times set the following properties:
Format = Custom
CustomFormat = "hh:mm" (for hour:min)
CustomFormat = "mm:ss" (for min:sec)
ShowUpDown = True
I'll look in to the DateTimePicker. It originally turned me off because
of the arrow that shows the callender, but ShowUpDown = True handles that
nicely.
I would expect the Browse button for the Sound File to be at the end of
the text box, not below it.
True. I'll see if I can jockey it around some.
I normally include "..." at the end of buttons that show a second dialog
box, for example: Change Color..., Change Font..., Browse... and Show
Border...
Oops, I missed that one.
It looks like Microsoft messed up a little on this in Screen Saver and
Appearance tabs in Display Properties.
Of course, that's no excuse.
Larry suggested a combobox for picking fonts and colors.
The Desktop tab in Display Properties has a nice colorpicker.
If this is under VS.NET 2003, I would enable Themes by:
Setting the FlatStyle to System that supported it (labels, group boxes,
buttons).
Include the following in my MainForm:
Public Shared Sub Main()
Application.EnableVisualStyles()
Application.DoEvents()
Application.Run(New MainForm)
End Sub
I like this idea. Is there a programmatic way to change all my buttons
and stuff to flatstyle.system?
Matthew
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote They are all tabbed dialogs.
Would you consider this an improvement to my layout?
Yes, for all the reasons previously stated.
LFS
> Doh! I was testing on a sample that already had flat style set,
Change the following: UpdateFlatStyles(Me.Controls, FlatStyle.Standard)
TO:
UpdateFlatStyles(Me.Controls, FlatStyle.System)
Hey, no problem. I get the idea.
Your code is perfect!
Thank you,
Matthew
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote I gave the tabs idea a try:
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown/images/tabs.gif
While it does look neater, I think the sacrifice of convience is to great.
What convenience? Having them all shown on the screen?
You might try showing a monitor above the tabs like the
Display Properties window where they could get an exact
preview of the font and colors. And, you could move Windows
to another tab (Is Windows where you position the text? You
might call that tab Positions)
Of course this is only a suggestion....
:-)
LFS
> I would consider including the above in my base form class, so all forms benefit from the code.
How would I go about doing this? I don't know where the "base form class"
can be found.
Matthew
I like properties.gif best.
Still not sure about that raised panel tho !
:)
--
OHM ( Terry Burns ) * Use the following to email me *
Dim ch() As Char = "ufssz/cvsotAhsfbuTpmvujpotXjui/OFU".ToCharArray()
For i As Int32 = 0 To ch.Length - 1
ch(i) = Convert.ToChar(Convert.ToInt16(ch(i)) - 1)
Next
Process.Start("mailto:" & New String(ch))
--
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:OT**************@TK2MSFTNGP12.phx.gbl... Thanks to all for your comments.
Here is what I have now:
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown...properties.gif
I consider it much improved.
I gave the tabs idea a try:
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown/images/tabs.gif
While it does look neater, I think the sacrifice of convience is to great.
I played around with another idea: vertical alignment.
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown...s/vertical.gif
However, I think I like the first one better.
Cor mentioned that the timepicker in the sound section wasn't clear. I'm
thinking of explaining in a tooltip.
Does anybody have any more thoughts for improvements?
Matthew
Matthew,
I like properties.gif the best.
I agree the tabs.gif seems inconvenient, as you need to select a new tab
simply to enter one or two items. I find tabs work much better if each tab
has a number (5 to 10) elements or each tab has common info, such as Larry
suggests you had a "monitor" or preview of the settings above the tabs or in
the same location on each tab.
Also did you try 2 tabs instead of 4 tabs? Where Clock & Sound are on the
first tab, while the Header & Footer are on the second tabs?
Hope this helps
Jay
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:OT**************@TK2MSFTNGP12.phx.gbl... Thanks to all for your comments.
Here is what I have now:
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown...properties.gif
I consider it much improved.
I gave the tabs idea a try:
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown/images/tabs.gif
While it does look neater, I think the sacrifice of convience is to great.
I played around with another idea: vertical alignment.
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown...s/vertical.gif
However, I think I like the first one better.
Cor mentioned that the timepicker in the sound section wasn't clear. I'm
thinking of explaining in a tooltip.
Does anybody have any more thoughts for improvements?
Matthew
> Still not sure about that raised panel tho !
Sorry, I don't understand. What raised pannel?
Matthew
Matthew,
I believe he is referring to the line between your "form" and the menu bar.
It appears that your "form" is raised.
Hope this helps
Jay
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:eA**************@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl... Still not sure about that raised panel tho !
Sorry, I don't understand. What raised pannel?
Matthew
Matthew,
You would need to define one, its an advanced feature of VB.NET. If you have
2 or more forms in your project & each form shares common functionality
(either controls or methods) then I would consider using Visual Inheritance.
For only 2 or 3 it depends on how much logic is shared if I would use Visual
Inheritance or not, 5 or more its unlikely I would not use Visual
Inheritance. http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/de...nheritance.asp http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/de...l/vs0201gs.asp http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/de...nheritance.asp
In the example I gave its as simple as adding a new Class to your project
called FormBase and have it inherit from Form and add the Code I gave
earlier
Something like:
Public Class FormBase
Inherits System.Windows.Forms.Form
Protected Overrides Sub OnLoad(ByVal e As System.EventArgs)
MyBase.OnLoad(e)
UpdateFlatStyles(Me.Controls, FlatStyle.System)
End Sub
Private Sub UpdateFlatStyles(ByVal controls As
Control.ControlCollection, ByVal flatStyle As FlatStyle)
For Each control As control In controls
If TypeOf control Is Label Then
DirectCast(control, Label).FlatStyle = flatStyle
ElseIf TypeOf control Is ButtonBase Then
DirectCast(control, ButtonBase).FlatStyle = flatStyle
ElseIf TypeOf control Is GroupBox Then
DirectCast(control, GroupBox).FlatStyle = flatStyle
End If
If control.HasChildren Then
UpdateFlatStyles(control.Controls, flatStyle)
End If
Next
End Sub
End Class
Then change the Inherits of each of your Forms from:
Public Class MainForm
Inherits System.Windows.Forms.Form
To:
Public Class MainForm
Inherits FormBase
For example I have a DialogBase form in my project that all my Dialog forms
inherit from.
Hope this helps
Jay
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:u7**************@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl... I would consider including the above in my base form class, so all forms
benefit from the code.
How would I go about doing this? I don't know where the "base form class"
can be found.
Matthew
> What convenience? Having them all shown on the screen?
Yes, that's what I meant. Sorry for not being clear. You might try showing a monitor above the tabs like the
Display Properties window where they could get an exact
preview of the font and colors.
Ordinarilly I would jump on that idea without a second thought.
It is really cool!
Sadly, I don't think I would work well in this program.
The changes are applied dynamically to three windows with a hidden
background that are on their screen:
http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown/images/red.gif
And, you could move Windows
to another tab (Is Windows where you position the text? You
might call that tab Positions)
Actually, Windows is the toggle button Cor suggested.
(FYI: The text is positioned by click and drag.)
When it's depressed, the borders are shown on the three windows in the link
above: http://www.osbornewood.com/countdown/images/window.gif
It might not be clear enough. Can you think of a better way to present it?
Matthew
> I believe he is referring to the line between your "form" and the menu bar. It appears that your "form" is raised.
Ooh. Gotcha.
It looks like it's an automatic thing because of the menu. I'm not to
worried about it.
However, if anybody has a suggestion, I'm all ears.
Matthew
Matthew,
I not sure how it compares to properties.gif either.
Overall I prefer properties.gif, closely followed by tab1.gif & tab2.gif...
Just a thought
Jay
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:%2****************@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl... Also did you try 2 tabs instead of 4 tabs? Where Clock & Sound are on the
first tab, while the Header & Footer are on the second tabs?
Oops, I meant to but forgot. Here's the result:
www.osbornewood.com/countdown/images/tab1.gif
www.osbornewood.com/countdown/images/tab2.gif
It is much better than four tabs. I'm not sure how it compares to
properties.gif, though.
I'll think about it.
Matthew
>> Is there a programmatic way to change all my buttons and stuff to flatstyle.system?
I normally set them in the designer, however you should be able to use
something like:
[code]
I just noticed this slows the load time of my program by over a second!
Changing the flatstyle in the designer is looking more attractive all the
time.
Is there a way to change the default flatstyle in the designer?
Matthew
Matthew,
The only way I know of to change the Default is to derive a new class from
the original & override the value. Then use this new class on my forms
instead of the original.
Something like:
Imports System.ComponentModel
Public Class ButtonEx
Inherits System.Windows.Form.Button
Public Sub New()
MyBase.FlatStyle = FlatStyle.System
End Sub
<DefaultValue(GetType(FlatStyle), "System")> _
Public Shadows Property FlatStyle() As FlatStyle
Get
Return MyBase.FlatStyle
End Get
Set(ByVal value As FlatStyle)
MyBase.FlatStyle = value
End Set
End Property
End Class
Then every place I would have used a System.Windows.Form.Button I would use
a ButtonEx instead.
Note ButtonBase.FlatStyle is not defined as overridable so we have to
Shadows it here. Ideally we want to use Overrides instead of Shadows,
however Shadows here is OK as we are simply delegating the base property!
The reason we need the DefaultValue attribute on it to let the Designer know
that the FlatStyle value has a default value of System (not Standard as
Button has). Even with Shadows the designer is able to use the other
attributes it needs from ButtonBase.FlatStyle.
You can apply the same code to extended Label, CheckBox, RadioButton, and
GroupBox controls also.
Hope this helps
Jay
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote in message
news:%2******************@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl... Is there a programmatic way to change all my buttons and stuff to
flatstyle.system?
I normally set them in the designer, however you should be able to use
something like:
[code]
I just noticed this slows the load time of my program by over a second!
Changing the flatstyle in the designer is looking more attractive all the
time.
Is there a way to change the default flatstyle in the designer?
Matthew
Matthew,
A question, did you look at my sample what I have added to this thread 3
days ago?
As far as I see are all your questions in this thread, with the exception of
the visual styles, in that sample however setting the flat style with that
will be very easy?
Cor
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> Is there a programmatic way to change all my buttons and stuff to
flatstyle.system?
I normally set them in the designer, however you should be able to use
something like:
[code]
I just noticed this slows the load time of my program by over a second!
Changing the flatstyle in the designer is looking more attractive all the
time.
Is there a way to change the default flatstyle in the designer?
Matthew
Matthew,
It looks very nice and there are parts what can be possitive citisized
When I was you , I would not think about it a while, you have done a lot of
work, listening to advises, used them in. Take another part of your program
and wait on what the customers like or what you find in some weeks/months.
Devellopers are no customers, what they find important can be for a customer
completly unimportant until they tell you.
Just my thought,
Cor
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> Also did you try 2 tabs instead of 4 tabs? Where Clock & Sound are on the
first tab, while the Header & Footer are on the second tabs?
Oops, I meant to but forgot. Here's the result:
www.osbornewood.com/countdown/images/tab1.gif
www.osbornewood.com/countdown/images/tab2.gif
It is much better than four tabs. I'm not sure how it compares to
properties.gif, though.
I'll think about it.
Matthew
Doh,
Mathew or others skip this message I thought that it was the thread of
somebody with the name Tym, where was a long thread and my sample did cover
all the questions.
To quick written and sand
My fault sorry
Cor
"Cor Ligthert" <no************@planet.nl>. Matthew,
A question, did you look at my sample what I have added to this thread 3
days ago?
As far as I see are all your questions in this thread, with the exception
of the visual styles, in that sample however setting the flat style with
that will be very easy?
Cor
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net>
Is there a programmatic way to change all my buttons and stuff to
flatstyle.system?
I normally set them in the designer, however you should be able to use
something like:
[code]
I just noticed this slows the load time of my program by over a second!
Changing the flatstyle in the designer is looking more attractive all the
time.
Is there a way to change the default flatstyle in the designer?
Matthew
> Doh,
Mathew or others skip this message I thought that it was the thread of
somebody with the name Tym, where was a long thread and my sample did
cover all the questions.
To quick written and sand
My fault sorry
Cor
Cor,
That is really no problem. I really appreciate all your assistance!
Matthew
> When I was you , I would not think about it a while, you have done a lot of work, listening to advises, used them in. Take another part of your
program and wait on what the customers like or what you find in some
weeks/months.
Devellopers are no customers, what they find important can be for a
customer completly unimportant until they tell you.
That's a good point. Now, I'm off to find some customers...
;-)
Matthew
You all have been most helpful with ideas for my countdown program. I have
one final (hopefully) question.
Does anybody have an idea for a company name for me?
I plan to market the program to businesses, churches, and individuals to
count down to the start of an event.
I don't have any other software to sell, and no imediate plans to create
anything else.
Thanks in advance,
Matthew
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote I plan to market the program to businesses, churches, and individuals to
count down to the start of an event.
There is a very large difference between need, and want, and willing to
pay for....
If you have not fullfiled a need, then you have to pitch your product
to those who have extra money to throw around on 'nifty gadgets'.
Finding your target audience may be one of the tougher things you do....
I don't have any other software to sell, and no imediate plans to create
anything else.
If you expect anything more than pennies per year, you will have to change
that before you can expect to earn more than you spend on advertising.
How many companies can you name that make exactly one product?
I am not trying to discourage your activities, but I would suggest you do
a little research into who might actually 'need' your product, and how
you can reach them without spending all your profits before they are earned.
I'd also suggest, rather than moving to market with one item, that you spend
more time in the developer's chair, making new products. Not only will
you end up with more to offer, but your skills will increase whereby you
might revisit those first few, adding in things you've learned along the way.
LFS
"Larry Serflaten" <se*******@usinternet.com> wrote in message
news:eq**************@TK2MSFTNGP15.phx.gbl...
"Matthew" <tu*************@alltel.net> wrote
I plan to market the program to businesses, churches, and individuals to
count down to the start of an event.
There is a very large difference between need, and want, and willing to
pay for....
If you have not fullfiled a need, then you have to pitch your product
to those who have extra money to throw around on 'nifty gadgets'.
Finding your target audience may be one of the tougher things you do....
I don't have any other software to sell, and no imediate plans to create
anything else.
If you expect anything more than pennies per year, you will have to change
that before you can expect to earn more than you spend on advertising.
How many companies can you name that make exactly one product?
I am not trying to discourage your activities, but I would suggest you do
a little research into who might actually 'need' your product, and how
you can reach them without spending all your profits before they are
earned.
I'd also suggest, rather than moving to market with one item, that you
spend
more time in the developer's chair, making new products. Not only will
you end up with more to offer, but your skills will increase whereby you
might revisit those first few, adding in things you've learned along the
way.
LFS
Thanks for your comments. I will think about this further.
Matthew This thread has been closed and replies have been disabled. Please start a new discussion. Similar topics
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