Tools

[netman4ttm]

We are starting to develop an application for internal use.
Currently, that application is written entirely in Foxpro 2.6.

We are looking to make this application as OS independent as possible. For that reason, we are considering a web server, database engine, server side programming and a browser based user interface.

Translated to Apache, PostgreSQL, PHP, Mozilla.

The Apache and Mozilla parts of this equation are good choices. Its the database and the programming lanquage that are up in the air. Additionally, we would like to keep as much of the Foxpro backend, reporting and printing, as possible.

The programming tools on hand are Visual Studio, but not a contender for the front end, and Coffee Cup.

We are looking for a solution that offers a good IDE, write once use many times, (we have multible clients but the program we use now requires only minor modification for each client).

The database engine must allow backups while running. So, MySQL is out. Would consider Oracle, Sybase, DB2 or anything else if they offer a great tool kit.

[markroberts]

I develop on both Windows and Linux boxes and have developed several database apps.

What I usually do is develop a web server database which can then be downloaded into a work station app for reporting, etc.

On the windows server, I use Visual Foxpro where I can download the database directly into a VFP v8 app that I developed. I can then so reporting and updating of static information. I could also use MS Access. I write all of my web interfaces on this sever in ASP.

On the Linus server, I use MySql database (which is excellent by the way) and interface to it via PHP web pages. PHP is also an excellent way to go. I haven't found anything that it can't do yet. I can export the data, download it and import into my VFP or other database for reporting, etc.

I could do web based reports using something like Crystal Reports, but that can be expensive and very server demanding.

I know there are interfaces for using asp on Linux and PHP on Windows, etc. However I have found the best combinations are MySql + PHP on Linux and ODBC + ASP on Windows.

[netman4ttm]

Thanks Mark,

What tools do you use for the PHP part of this formula?

Also, how do you handle backups with MySQL?